Friends, Food, and Fun!

A guide to healthy eating out.. without the guilt.

We've all been there: the friend group texts explode with restaurant ideas, and your brain goes into overdrive.

Are you the person who throws caution to the wind, diving into the bread basket, embracing the fried food, and saying "yes" to dessert? Or are you the person who strategically saves room for a sweet ending while keeping your main course in check?

Here's the thing: there's no one-size-fits-all answer! This is about finding what works best for you so you can achieve your golden glow.

Here are some battle-tested strategies to help you navigate your night out:

• Plan ahead: Before you even leave the house, channel your inner secret agent and spy on the restaurant menu online. This way, you can: identify dishes that fit your dietary needs; and consider potential modifications to tweak dishes to fit your preferences.

  Some considerations can include: Swap fries for veggies, request sauces on the side, opt for grilled chicken or fish, or ask for a bun-less burger if that is your jam.

  

  Photo by Lily Banse on Unsplash

  Bonus: This pre-game intel gathering will leave you feeling confident and empowered when you actually get to the restaurant. No more last-minute scrambling or awkward "um, I don't know" moments. You'll be ready to order like a golden goddess!

• The dreaded bread basket: Let's be honest, the warm, inviting aroma of the bread basket can be hard to resist- a seemingly harmless indulgence. Now, I want you to stay with me here because there is a fantastic solution if you want to enjoy your bread basket. But first, what many people don't realize is that this seemingly innocent appetizer can be a sneaky culprit in our dietary battles. Why? Because bread falls under the category of high glycemic index (GI) foods.

  What's the big deal with GI? GI measures how quickly a food raises your blood sugar levels. High GI foods like bread cause a rapid rise in blood sugar, followed by an equally sharp decline. This roller coaster effect can have several undesirable effects:

  • Cravings: The blood sugar crash can trigger cravings for sugary or high-carb foods, leading to overeating later.

  • Energy dips: The initial sugar surge can lead to a subsequent energy slump, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish.

  • Long-term health concerns: Frequent spikes in blood sugar are a risk factor for various health problems, including type 2 diabetes.

  So, what can you do? I love the bread basket!

  A healthy alternative to devouring the bread basket before your meal is to ask for the bread basket to be served AFTER your protein-rich appetizer. Starting with a protein-rich appetizer and then diving into the bread basket will help slow down the spike in your blood sugar levels. Who knows, you may not even want to indulge in the bread basket after your appetizer and instead may opt to indulge in dessert.

  

  Photo by Monika Grabkowska on Unsplash

• A shareable strategy: Instead of ordering a whole plate of fries for yourself, propose a "shareable" option! Suggest ordering a large portion to be split amongst the table. This way, everyone can enjoy a taste without overdoing it.

  But wait, there's more! To truly tip the scales in favor of your golden glow double down on the veggies by requesting extra vegetables on your main course. This adds a nutrient boost and helps you feel satisfied without sacrificing flavor.

The Post Dinner Guilt: Banish It With Kindness

Even with the best intentions we have all been there: the next morning after a fun night out, a voice in our head whispers doubts like, "Why did I have those fries?" and "Maybe I shouldn't have had that second (or dare I say third) drink." It's easy to fall into the guilt trap, but let's shift our perspective and honor our body's choices with kindness.

By shifting your mindset from judgment to self-compassion, you empower yourself to move forward without letting guilt derail your progress. Remember, it's all about balance, not perfection. Now, go out there and conquer your weekend with a smile and a glow!

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Supplement of the Week

Let’s hydrate, grow, and glow!

As you may know, I'm passionate about researching quality supplements before recommending them to friends and clients. This week I am highlighting Pique Life BT Fountain, an electrolyte drink packed with benefits for both your hydration and your skin.

Why I love Pique Life BT Fountain:

• Clinically Proven Ceramides: This ingredient boasts scientific backing for its ability to improve skin elasticity and reduce fine lines. It may also contribute to hair health, something I've personally noticed positive changes in since using BT Fountain. (Note: I also have been taking Nutrafol for hair growth so the positive changes may be attributed to this combination.)

• Electrolyte Powerhouse: Packed with essential electrolytes like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that are often lost during workouts and/or dehydration.

• Delicious Yuzu Flavor: Let's face it, plain water can get boring! This delicious yuzu flavor makes staying hydrated enjoyable without the nasty after taste.

• Triple Toxin Screen: Pique Life prioritizes purity and safety. Their rigorous testing ensures the product is free from heavy metals, pesticides, and toxic mold.

  Disclaimer: I want to be completely transparent. I have no affiliation with Pique Life - I simply admire their commitment to quality ingredients and rigorous testing.