Tara Curran
For many of you, Valentines Day involves chocolates, champagne and being whisked away for a romantic dinner date, but a typical 3 course meal could contain your whole day’s calorie allowance. So how do you enjoy the romance of the date while avoiding the guilt?
What makes the perfect dinner date?
Many people starve themselves all day prior to a big meal but, by the time you arrive at the restaurant, you will be so hungry you’re likely to eat the whole bread basket before your drink order even arrives. Instead have light healthy meals throughout the day such as fruit, yoghurt, soup and salads. Have a small snack before heading out so that you’re your not famished when you arrive at the restaurant, this means that you’re likely to order less, eat slower and not feel as guilty the next day.
Order a jug of water and sip it throughout the meal, alternating between wine and water. By ordering a bottle of fizzy water to make spritzers, you will drink less wine and will stay hydrated, so that you avoid the groggy, bloated feeling the next day.
For a starter, choose something light; remember this is the first course of many. Small salads, with dressing on the side, or vegetable broth are both good options. Salad dressing is often packed with calories, especially a creamy one, by asking for the dressing on the side, you can control the amount you use and limit the calories.
Opt for char grilled, baked or steamed foods, fish and chicken are good options and asking for the sauce on the side will save lots of calories. Avoid the fatty side orders instead, go for a large serving of vegetables and choose boiled or baked potatoes instead of chips. If you’re eating Italian avoid the creamy sauces in favour of the tomato based ones. Another important thing to remember is your portion sizes. Just because it’s on your plate, doesn’t mean if have to eat it all. If you’re full, just stop eating, your figure will thank you for it.
If you simply can’t resist the lure of the desert menu why not suggest that you share a desert with your date, that way you get to satisfy your sweet tooth for half the calories. Other ways to avoid the guilt include choosing a sorbet instead of ice cream or choosing a fresh fruit salad instead of a rich chocolate dessert.
Often restaurants have their menu online so that you can look at it in advance and decide what the healthier options are. This avoids the stress on the night so you can focus on your date not on the menu. Healthy eating isn’t about sacrifice. By making wise choices you can avoid the food hangover and keep your diet right on track.