A F T E R B A R I A T R I C S U R G E R Y

GUIDE TO DINING OUT

T I P S A N D T R I C K S F O R D I N I N GO U T A F T E R B A R I A T R I C S U R G E R Y

Eating is a very social event . Many post-op patients

notice how many events revolve around food ,

especially unhealthy foods .

While it may not be possible to avoid all functions

that involve dining out , it is possible to make better

choices when these occasions arise .

The following guide will give you tips and tricks to

making the most of your post-op diet , even when out

with family and friends .

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T H E B A S I C SA few simple guidelines that will enhance your

bariatric dining out experience .

First, release the pressure of having to eat

like everyone else. You are your own unique

individual and as such can make your own

choices. Don't be swayed by what other

people are eating or drinking. Stick to your

plan and remember your goals.

FOCUS ON YOU

Stick to foods that you have already tried and

had success with at home. You don't want to

try something for the first time (and have it

not agree with your new stomach) when you

are dining out.

Whenever possible, have your voice heard

about what restaurants will or will not work

best for your new lifestyle. Italian restaurants

with all of the pasta choices, or Chinese

restaurants with a lot of fried foods may not be

the best options. Speak up and let others know

what you would prefer.

STICK TO FAMILIAR FOODS

CHOOSE THE RESTAURANT

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If possible , look at the menu online before going

out so that you can take time to find a dish that

suits your needs .

Skip the appetizer . It can fill you up too much for

your main course .

Order smaller portions if available . The kids ' menu

or seniors ' menu often have smaller portions . Using

an appetizer as a main can also be a great option .

Look for light menu options that are prepared

without oils and butters .

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Ordering

W H A T T O O R D E RNot all foods are created equal . Make healthy ,

nutritious choices

Look for meals that contain mostly lean

protein (chicken or fish) and vegetables. If

your meal comes with fries, rice, or

potatoes, ask your server if you can swap

them for extra vegetables.

Ask for dressings and sauces to be served on

the side. This will allow you to add only a little

bit and will also prevent leftovers from going

soggy.

Ask your server how a dish is

prepared if it's unclear. Avoid foods

that are fried. Instead, choose

meals that are baked, roasted,

grilled, broiled, or steamed.

ON THE SIDE

KNOW HOW IT'S PREPARED

PROTEIN & VEGGIES

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I f y o u ' r e g o i n g t o i n d u l g e i n a n a d u l t b e v e r a g e ,c h o o s e r e d w i n e o v e r b e e r s o r m i x e d d r i n k s . S t o p

d r i n k i n g o n c e t h e a p p e t i z e r s h a v e b e e n b r o u g h t t ot h e t a b l e , a b o u t 2 0 - 3 0 m i n u t e s b e f o r e t h e m a i n

d i s h i s s e r v e d .

ALCOHOL

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W H E N Y O U R F O O D C O M E STips to avoid over-indulging in your meal

Immediately ask for a to-go container and

put everything that you don't want to (or

shouldn't) consume in there. Restaurant

portions are often large enough to last for

3+ meals.

TO-GO CONTAINER

It can be hard to remember not to drink with

your meal, especially when dining out. So as

soon as your food comes, move your drink

out of your reach or have the server take it

away. This will help you avoid the temptation

of drinking while eating.

If you ordered a meal that comes with

breads, tortillas or buns - remove them

right away. Eat the main dish without the

bulky carbohydrates to fill you up with

unncessary and often empty, calories.

DRINKING

SIMPLE CARBOHYDRATES

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You want to avoid dessert whenever possible ,

as these are typically empty calories filled

with unhealthy fats and simple carbohydrates .

However , if you MUST indulge , here are some

tips :

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DESSERT

Share a dessert with someone else so you aren't tempted to eat

the entire portion

Avoid puddings and ice creams as these are often foods your

stomach will not restrict

Try to choose options with fruits included to allow for some

nutritional value

Have just a taste to satisfy your craving