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Maintaining a low-carb diet isn’t just about what you eat and when, but also includes finding ways to eat healthy while maintaining the social aspects of your life. Dining out with friends, attending family gatherings, and ordering take-out can be tricky for those trying to stick to a low-carb diet. Whether you’ve committed to a strict keto plan or decided to go largely low-carb, there are ways you can enjoy eating out and maintain your health.
Eating Out
If you’re out at a restaurant that offers a lot of options, like a sandwich joint, choosing what to eat is easier than at a place like a pizza place where you may be limited to the one or two pre-assembled dishes that fit your diet. Choose items like salads, sandwiches with grilled meats, and grilled veggies. Ask for dressing on the side so you can control the calorie and fat values of your meal. Italian restaurants usually offer a variety of items that are low in carbs but high in flavor like grilled fish, salads, and steamed vegetables.
Family Gatherings
It can be especially challenging to follow a low-carb diet at a family gathering. It can help to bring your own food so you know you have something to eat that fits your diet. You might also ask family members if they are willing to provide healthy dishes. Good options to bring or ask for include salads, grilled meats, hard-boiled eggs, vegetable trays, and even homemade treats made with low-carb sweeteners and ingredients.
Healthy Take-Out Options
Ordering take-out can often be a struggle when trying to stick to a low-carb lifestyle. It’s important to read the nutrition information if available and pay attention to ingredients. Instead of ordering carb-heavy dishes like burritos, gyros, and pizza, look out for grilled items, broth-based soups, and stir-fry dishes. You can also customize your own order to ensure that you are sticking to a low-carb plan.
Staying committed to a low-carb diet doesn’t have to mean giving up the social aspect of eating. With a little bit of planning, it’s easy to enjoy meals with friends and family while still staying on track with your health goals.
