Eating out with friends and family while trying to maintain a Keto lifestyle can be a challenge for sure. Restaurants are chock full of items like carb laden alcoholic drinks, bread, potatoes, pasta and deserts that are all lurking, just waiting for you to lose your will power and fall out of Ketosis.
Here are 5 tips that will insure you can stay in Ketosis AND enjoy a nice dinner out.
1. Do your research
Almost every restaurant you will want to go to now has their menu online. Spend a bit of time reviewing what options you might have prior to arriving at the restaurant. This will help you make informed choices without feeling any pressure.
2. Have a “support partner”
Share your Keto goals with someone who will be at dinner with you. Explain to them what you are trying to accomplish and why staying away from carbs is important to you. Ask that person to support you during the meal and remind you of your goals if you feel a moment of weakness.
3. Eat a “Keto Pre-Meal”
We often make made food choices when we get hungry. When our hunger gets the best of us, we often reach for something quick and easy. In a restaurant full of tempting foods, this can really throw you out of Ketosis quickly. A great strategy to follow is to eat a Keto friendly snack or meal before heading out (For a list of 60 Keto meals download our 21 Day Keto Reset Diet ebook here). This will keep you full and less likely to make a choice you will regret later.
4. Go Low Carb
Many people think of the Keto diet as low carb, but it Is really low carb and high fat. Your body needs the high fat to go into Ketosis. That said, it can be hard to eat a low carb / high fat meal when you are out. In that case, try and eat a low carb only meal and worry about getting your fats in earlier in the day.
5. Drink Exogenous Ketones Before Going Out
Exogenous Ketones will do two things for you when going out for a meal. First, they will keep you in Ketosis (even if you have a few carbs). Exogenous Ketones put your body in Ketosis within 60 minutes of drinking them and you will stay in Ketosis for 6 – 8 hours. Exogenous Ketones also function as an appetite suppressant so you will be much less likely to over eat while you are out (Read our full review of Exogenous Ketones HERE).
Bonus Tip – Focus on the Moment, Not the Food
Often times when we go out, we make it all about the food. In those cases, passing on some of your favorite carb laden foods can be difficult. But, if your focus is on spending time, enjoying a night out with those you love, the food becomes secondary. Your focus will be on fun and laughter and not the bread on the table.
The bottom line is be prepared and then go out and have a great night!!!
Frank and Cat Vandy are recognized leaders and influencers in the Keto community. Combined they have lost nearly 50 pounds and introduced hundreds of others to the Ketogenic lifestyle. To contact Frank and Cat visit our About Us.