Losing weight can feel like a daunting task, especially when dining out presents temptations at every turn. However, nutritionist Simrun Chopra assures that achieving weight-loss goals doesn’t mean giving up your favourite foods entirely. On her Instagram profile, Simrun shared practical tips to help you make better choices while eating out. A balance between mindful eating and occasional indulgence, she emphasizes, can help you see results faster.
Here’s a breakdown of the four types of foods to avoid at restaurants if you’re trying to shed some pounds, along with smarter alternatives to consider.
Foods to Avoid When Dining Out
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Skip the Free Starters
The complimentary bread basket, chips, or papad served before meals might seem harmless, but they’re anything but calorie-free. Simrun warns that these snacks can add 200–300 calories before your main course even arrives. These seemingly small bites can derail your calorie control, especially if weight loss is your goal.
Instead, skip the starters and focus on the main meal you came to enjoy. This small adjustment can help save calories without compromising your dining experience.
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Avoid Creamy Curries
Rich, creamy dishes like butter chicken or dal makhani are often irresistible but come with a hefty calorie load. For instance, butter chicken contains approximately 200 calories per 100 grams, while dal makhani clocks in at around 170 calories for the same portion. These dishes are often prepared with generous amounts of cream and butter, making them calorie-dense.
Simrun advises opting for lighter gravies or curries without cream. Dishes like tandoori chicken or grilled fish paired with plain curries are better choices. They satisfy cravings without overwhelming your daily calorie intake.
Say No to Fried Foods
Fried delicacies like gobi Manchurian, chicken wings, or drums of heaven may be flavorful but are calorie-packed. For example, a 100-gram portion of gobi Manchurian contains about 220 calories, while chicken wings and drums of heaven can reach up to 300 calories per 100 grams.
Instead, switch to grilled or tandoori options. These dishes are not only cooked with less oil but are also packed with flavour, thanks to marination and spices. Tandoori paneer, grilled chicken, or steamed fish are excellent alternatives that align with weight-loss goals.
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Rethink Desserts and Sugary Drinks
Mocktails and desserts can be surprising calorie bombs. A single mocktail like a Margarita contains around 180 calories, rivalling some desserts in sugar content. Similarly, sugary desserts can quickly add to your calorie count, derailing your efforts.
Simrun suggests sharing a dessert instead of indulging in a whole serving. For drinks, stick to water, soda, or salted beverages that don’t add unnecessary sugar to your diet.
What to Eat Instead?
While avoiding calorie-heavy dishes is essential, knowing what to choose is just as important. Here are some healthier alternatives Simrun recommends:
Grilled and Tandoori Options
Choose steamed, grilled, or tandoori dishes, which use less oil and are high in protein. These options satisfy hunger while keeping your calorie intake in check.
Whole Wheat Choices
Swap buttery naans for plain rotis or whole wheat bread to reduce calorie consumption while retaining flavour.
Healthier Drinks
Opt for plain water, soda, or lightly salted drinks instead of sugary mocktails or sodas to avoid hidden calories.
Balanced Meals
Prioritise meals that include a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and complex carbs. This not only ensures nutrition but also keeps you satiated for longer.
Bottomline
Dining out doesn’t have to sabotage your weight-loss journey. With mindful choices, like avoiding creamy curries, fried foods, and sugary drinks, and opting for grilled or balanced meals, you can enjoy your favourite restaurants while staying on track. By following these simple tips, you can strike a balance between indulgence and discipline, making weight loss both sustainable and enjoyable.