It Isn't Easy Eating Out!

    I think the hardest part of the entire diet for me was making sure I planned ahead. My boyfriend and I lead VERY busy lives (we both work full time, have hobbies and like to do side work for friends and family), so we often eat take-out, or pre-cooked meals because they are fast.

    Obviously when I started the diet I could no longer have ANYTHING that was fast food. I got pretty desperate a few nights when I got home very late (like 9) and ended up eating nothing, or snacking on nuts because I just didn't have the energy to cook. That will definitely make you a little grumpy!

     I found a few restaurant options that do cater somewhat to allergies, and if you look at your options before going, sometimes you can find good meals that will work for you.

    If you live somewhere that there is a BJ's Brewhouse around, they actually have a gluten free menu that also lists all of their healthier items with check marks under common allergens that they contain. I was able to order a meal of balsamic glazed chicken, atop baby greens, with caramelized onions and brown rice (substituted from the original mashed potatoes that come with it). I cut the chicken up and stirred everything together and it was SO GOOD. I wanted more and finished every bite. It was so nice to get something yummy that *I* didn't have to cook for once!

The balsamic chicken (picture this with brown rice, not mashed potatoes!)

 

   Another restaurant that caters to those with food allergies is Chipotle. They have a section on their website that shows what allergens their foods contain. I was able to make a chicken, brown rice, black bean and lettuce bowl that was yummy, healthy and fit my diet!

   I risked it once and had a chicken salad at a mexican restaurant, I just asked that they hold the tomatoes, salsa, sour cream and cheese. It was good, may possibly have had corn oil on chicken but otherwise fit the bill.

   And yesterday I was able to get the Southwest Chicken Salad at Red Robin minus the dressing, cheese, corn, tomatoes and corn chips and that also fit the diet.

   Lastly, steak houses are your friend! You can get sweet potatoes, plain grilled chicken or fish, and steamed veggies. Just be sure to ask about what type of oil/butter they use and ask that it not be used on yours. Also, specify no dairy or soy products be used.

   As you can see, I was able to find items when I HAD to, but it is VERY time consuming and sometimes frustrating for staff. They were always very helpful and if you aren't sure--ask! It's their job to accomodate you. They ARE in the service industry after all! Just be sure to tip them well for their extra attention:)

Happy Eating (Out!) Y'all!!
~ Tara Lynn