For those who have gone through bariatric surgery, going out for meals can often be a pain rather than the joyous, sociable experience it should be. During the winter especially, when all we want is a warm, big, hearty meal, it can be a particular struggle to ensure we are ordering meals we can both stomach and enjoy.
Here at The Bariatric Group, we’ve put together our top tips on how you can still make the most from dining out this Christmas season.
Think Healthy
Many restaurants offer a section of their menu completely dedicated to lighter, less calorific options. By finding this part of the menu and ensuring you order from here, you are resisting any temptation whilst knowing you will be giving your body the nutrition it needs. If the restaurant doesn’t offer this on the menu, you can simply ask a waiter or waitress what are the healthiest dishes and their nutritional values. Many restaurants offer calorie and nutritional information next to all dishes, so ensuring you don’t go for something too fatty, sugary or full of carbs shouldn’t be a difficult task.
Preparation is Key
Before ordering your food, speak to a waiter or waitress regarding how the food is cooked. Just because menu item may state that it is cholesterol-free, does not mean that it is also far-free as the foot itself could be cooked with calorie dense oil. We’d advise asking how the food is cooked or what it is cooked in. Many waiters or waitresses will be happy to find out for you, and many restaurants would be willing to make exceptions for dietary requirements.
Your Way
Menus that are full of tempting and tantalising dishes may mean you have your heart set on a specific dish. However, it’s important that the meal is suited to you. Many restaurants will cater to specific dietary requirements for their guests, all you need to do is ask. For example, if your meal comes with chicken, ask if it can be grilled. If your meal comes with a side of chips, ask if you can have an ungarnished salad. Try to make your favourite dish a healthier alternative rather than a completely different meal altogether.
Vegetables
Vegetables are one of the best things to eat when you have gone through bariatric surgery, as they supply you with the majority of nutrients you need but keep your food tasteful and exciting. If your meal doesn’t come with vegetables, why not swap them for your chips or look at the sides the menu has to offer? It’s important that you do not eat food that is too greasy or fatty, like chips, or too much of the food put in front of you.
Drinks
Even though you are out for a meal, it is highly recommended that you avoid alcohol altogether after bariatric surgery. This is because alcohol contains a high number of calories but with minimal nutrition, which will work against your weight loss goal. We would always advise sticking with water, but to spice things up you can always opt for low sugar squashes or zero-calorie cola or lemonade. However, it is important that you do not drink any liquids 30 minutes before or after your meal.
If you have recently undergone bariatric surgery and are struggling with what foods you can eat when dining out, we can help you. For more information, get in touch with a member of our friendly team today by visiting out contact page or by giving us a call on 0808 128 0022.
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Disclaimer: Please note that weight loss surgery results and benefits are unique to each individual and in such The Bariatric Group cannot guarantee specific weight loss goals as results for each surgery can vary. If you have any questions or would like to know more about weight loss surgery please contact our expert team.
