Type 1 Diabetes Navigation
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EATING OUT WITH DIABETES
With some preparation, a person with diabetes can easily enjoy a meal at their favorite restaurant. It all comes down to making appropriate choices. Keep the following tips in mind when dining out.
Eat Before Going to Dinner - You may be thinking, "Huh?" But, eating a small healthy snack and having a glass of water before going out for a meal, will keep you from being starved by the time you arrive at the restaurant. If you eat before leaving for dinner, you'll be not as likely to order an unhealthy meal or overeat.
Plan Where You're Going Before You Leave - If you know where you're going, you'll have plenty of time to choose what you're going to order before you arrive atthe restaurant. If you're going to a favorite restaurant, don't even look at the menu. Reading the menu may make you change your mind about eating properly.
Try to Eat on Schedule - Try your best to always eat at the same time as usual, even when you're dining out at a restaurant. It will be much easier to maintain your blood sugar level when you stay on schedule.
Ask - If you have any questions about how something is made, ask. Don't be shy when it comes to enquiring about ingredients, asking for alternatives and changes, or asking that your food be prepared in a certain way. Remember, the restaurant and your waiter wants you to be happy. Happy customers leave largermore generous tips and make return trips to the restaurant.
Make the Healthiest Choice - You may be hankering for a certain dish, but think about how you'll feel afterwards if you don't eat properly. You don't want to sigh, "I wish I hadn't eaten that," after your meal. You'll never have any regrets if you always order the best choice for you.
Order Vegetables - Order a salad and steamed vegetables with your dinner, even if it means making a special request.
Drink Water - Order a glass of water with lemon to drink with your meal instead of ordering alcohol or soft drinks. A cup of black, green, or oolong tea is also an excellent choice.
On the Side - Ask for dressings, sauces, and gravy on the side. You can better control how much you eat by dipping your food instead of covering it.
Keep Away From the Complimentary Basket of Bread - Decline the bread basket. Bread will affect your blood sugar.
Only Eat Half of Your Meal - Stop eating when you've finished half of your meal. Have your server box up the rest and have it later. The good thing is you keep your blood sugar and portions in control and don't have to prepare anything for your next meal.
Remember That Eating Out is Not a "Treat" - Diabetes is a way of life and you must eat properly and control your blood sugar to avoid problems. Remember that you're not "taking a break" from eating properly when dining at a restaurant.
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