Dining Out When You Have Diabetes
Canada has over 800,000 seniors that are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, and it is sure that this number will rise with every passing year. And everyone that has been diagnosed with diabetes will get a restriction on what they can eat, so when they plan their meals they will have to follow the guidelines they have received from their specialists. Now, working with diabetic menu plans isn't that difficult when you're at home, but what to do when you're one of those people that loves to eat out?
For a lot of people eating out is one of lifes pleasures and it doesnt have to stop because you are diagnosed with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association has made a list of guidelines you can use so you can still enjoy a nice restaurant meal and still keep a good eye on your diabetes. It all comes down to making the right choices. Ask what you need to know and balance your restaurant meals out with healthy meals at home. Remember, diabetes is a condition that you can keep under control, you just have to put your mind to it.
Next to following the general guidelines, you should best contact a registered dietician or diabetic educator because not everyone diagnosed with diabetes will have the same nutritional goals. They can also help you to sort out what you can do when you're eating out. The first step that will help you maintain control is choosing a restaurant where you can find a great variety of meals. If you have more options, you will have a greater chance in finding foods that are appropriate for you. If you don't know how the choices are in the restaurant you are planning to go, you can always call ahead and ask them. Also making a reservation to avoid waiting time and to ensure that you will eat on time is important, especially when you are using insulin. The moment you make the reservation be sure to mention that eating on time is very important because of it. In most cases, restaurants will make a note of it, to assure that your table is ready on time.
When ordering:
- Ask for information if you're not sure about the content of certain menus
- Ask if liquid oil is used rather than solid fats for the food preparation.
- Choose a meal that is prepared with a minimal amount of salt, no extra sauce or butter.
- Pick a meal that is broiled, grilled or steamed instead of fried.
- If it's a larger serving than you are used to eat, make sure you don't overeat. You can take the extra food home.
- Ask if your sauce, gravy or salad dressing could be brought on the side.
- Don't be afraid to order a baked potato, just top it with a teaspoon of low-calorie yoghurt or sour cream and some vegetables from the salad bar.
- Put a limit on the amount of sugar, caffeine, alcohol and soft drinks you might consume.
And remember, enjoy the time you spend in the restaurant. Its not because you have diabetes, you can't enjoy lifes little pleasures. Having to live on a diabetic menu doesn't mean you can't live you life to the fullest.