Dining Out Tips

Be Prepared

If you're starving hungry when you get to the restaurant you're more likely to order an option that you may not otherwise. Have a bowl of zero ProPoints value soup to take the edge off your hunger before you head out. Find a recipe for soup with a zero ProPoints value in our recipe section.

If you're not familiar with the restaurant, look up their menu online before going out.

Keep a bag of small apples or some other healthy snack in your car at all times, and eat one before you go into a restaurant with friends. This will not only satisfy your hunger, but will remind you to eat wisely.

Remember you have your weekly ProPoints allowance of 49 for special occasions just like this!

Start Off On The Right Foot

Order a bowl of soup before your meal — not a creamy soup, but a stock-based vegetable or French onion. It will be satisfying and can keep you from overeating.

Start with a side salad (minus bacon, cheese and croutons). Ask for low fat or fat free dressing or balsamic vinegar on the side; and be sure to dip your fork into the dressing, then into the salad.

Try to drink water with your meal. If you decide to order a juice, fizzy drink or alcohol, always order water with it, too. If you want a second beverage, ask for a refill of the water.

Choose Wisely

Don't even open the menu! Simply know what you want to eat before you get there.

Ask for dressings, sauces, butter and sour cream on the side, instead of on the dish itself.

Whatever you order, make sure that it has loads of vegetables. "Even if it's pizza, make it a slice loaded up with veggies," says one member. "Or a grilled vegetable sandwich instead of a mile-high sandwich shop creation, or a vegetable omelette instead of a cheese one, or fruit salad instead of pastry."

Don't be afraid to ask for substitutions. Most restaurants will accommodate your requests. "My favourite salad at a fast food place comes with fried chicken," says another member. "But I always request it with grilled chicken. I think it tastes better and it cuts out fat and calories."

Manage Your Portions

When eating at a buffet, survey the food items before you put anything on your plate. The key is to remind yourself that you're eating to be satisfied, not to get your money's worth.

Split your starter with the person you're with. If you have the impulse to finish everything on your plate, it's better to not have all that food in front of you.

Have a Good Attitude

Do your best and practise the art of BAM: Breathe, Accept, Move On.

The celebration is about being out with your family and friends, not about food being served. Enjoy yourself and remember that the meal does not need to be your enemy.