SLIDESHOW
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Tips for Eating Out When You Have Diabetes
( courtecy;-webMD )
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Type 2 Diabetes: What to Order When You
Dine Out
1/16
Make the Right Menu Choices
Whether it’s dinner in a
restaurant or lunch from the drive-thru, you can enjoy eating out with type 2
diabetes. The key is to choose nutritious dishes. That’s not always easy,
because many meals made outside your kitchen are high in calories, fat, and carbs.
You can stick with your diabetes meal plan if you ask the right questions and
know what to look for on the menu.
1/16
Time It Right
Eating around the same
time every day keeps your blood sugar steady. That’s important if you take
insulin or medicine for your diabetes. Try to make a reservation at your usual
mealtime. If you know you’ll have a late lunch or dinner, snack on a piece of fruit
or bread, then skip that serving during your meal, so you don’t double up.
1/16
Do Some Prep Work
It’s easy to give in to
temptation when you’re dining with friends, especially if your decisions feel
rushed. Before you go, look up the restaurant’s menu online, and choose a dish
that fits with your diabetes meal plan. You also can call ahead of time to ask
questions and make requests. Some chefs will prepare a special meal.
1/16
Be Careful With Carbs
Your body needs carbs
for energy, but too many at once can raise your blood sugar. To keep your
levels steady, experts recommend 45 to 60 grams per meal. Many restaurant meals
pack in much more. In fact, one baked potato or medium serving of fries
delivers 60 grams. Keep an eye on your portions, and consider meals that are
lower in carbs, like a spinach salad with grilled chicken.
1/16
Scan the Menu for Healthy Buzzwords
Grilled, steamed,
poached, braised, and broiled: These cooking methods usually don’t add a lot of
fat or calories. Skip the ones labeled creamy, breaded, crusted, crispy, and
fried. Ask your server how a dish is prepared if it’s not clear on the menu.
1/16
Watch the Portions
Many restaurants give
you enough for two meals in one serving. If you know this is the case, ask your
server if a half-serving is an option, or ask for a take-home container and set
aside half for a later meal as soon as your food arrives. You also can split an
entree with someone, or pair a healthy appetizer with a salad or
broth-based soup for your meal.
1/16
Get Sauces and Dressings on the Side
Some restaurant dishes
come doused in dressing or sauce. That usually means you’re getting more
calories, sodium, and fat than you need -- or expected. To scale back, ask for
it on the side, then dip your fork in the sauce before taking each bite of
food. You also can drizzle it on your salad or entree one teaspoon at a time.
Better yet, flavor your dish simply with lemon juice and a little olive oil.
1/16
Ask for Substitutions
A few swaps can make
your meal healthier. Instead of french fries or hash browns, get a double order
of a vegetable, such as a side salad, broccoli, or tomato slices. Having tacos
or a burrito? Salsa or pico de gallo works well in place of cheese and sour cream.
Don’t be shy about asking for what you want. Restaurant staffs should be eager
to make their customers happy.
1/16
Choose Wisely at the Salad Bar
This is a good place to
fill up on nutritious vegetables. Pile your plate with low-carb picks, like
leafy greens, broccoli, and bell peppers. Then add lean protein, such as
grilled chicken or chickpeas. Cheese, croutons, dried fruit, and bacon bits are
high in calories, so only sprinkle on a small amount. Skip the creamy pasta and
potato salads, and go easy on the dressing.
1/16
Think About Your Drink
Sweetened beverages tack
calories and carbs onto your meal. If you’re not a fan of unsweetened tea or
coffee, have a glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime. Want a
glass of wine, beer, or a cocktail? With your doctor’s OK, alcohol is fine on
occasion. A light beer or wine spritzer doesn’t pack too many calories. If you
want a cocktail, opt for a calorie-free mixer like club soda instead of soda or
tonic water.
1/16
Room for Dessert?
You can indulge in the
occasional sweet treat while sticking with your diabetes meal plan. If you want
something sweet, cut back on carbs during your meal. Pass on the bread basket,
and hold the side of potatoes. To keep from overdoing it, share the dessert
with someone. A few bites are usually all you need to feel satisfied.
1/16
Look Out for Sneaky Sugars
Even if you play it
right with your drink and dessert, your meal can still serve up a sugar shock.
That’s because many dishes are prepared with added sweeteners. For example, a
quarter-cup of barbecue sauce can pack in 7 teaspoons of sugar. It’s best to steer
clear of dishes described as BBQ, glazed, sticky, honey, and teriyaki.
1/16
Build a Better Sandwich
Keep it simple.
Specialty breads such as biscuits, croissants, and hoagies are usually higher
in fat and calories than a bun or English muffin. Whatever you choose, it’s a
good idea to take off the top and go with an open-face version. For the
filling, opt for a lean protein, such as grilled chicken, deli turkey, or
low-fat roast beef. Cheese packs in 100 calories per ounce, so skip it or stick
with one slice. Then top it off with mustard or oil and vinegar along with
fresh vegetables, lettuce, and tomato.
1/16
Be Careful With Buffets
With their large spread
of dishes, all-you-can-eat buffets can be trouble. If possible, order off the
menu instead. If you can’t avoid the buffet, choose only a few dishes instead
of small scoops of several different things. A good rule of thumb: Fill half
your plate with non-starchy vegetables, then split the rest between a lean
protein and starch, such as a whole grain.
1/16
Fast-Food Tips
The average fast-food
meal can deliver 1,000 calories or more. But you can find diabetes-friendly
options at the drive-thru. First, check the menu’s nutritional information:
Grilled chicken sandwiches are often low-fat options. Pair it with a side salad
or apple slices instead of fries. And to keep your portions in check, order the
junior size instead of a deluxe or supersize meal.
Reviewed by William
Blahd, MD on January 24, 2017
This tool does not provide medical advice.
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