One major stressor for someone embracing a healthy lifestyle is eating out with their friends/family, or finding easy, quick, and healthy meal options for everyday meals. Below are a few easy tips to make eating out stress free and, of course, enjoyable!
ASK THE CHEF: Instead of trying to change an item on the menu, simply pull the waiter aside and politely ask him/her to ask the chef what they can make for a vegan. Even if you are not vegan, this will ensure that you do not receive butter or cheese in your “vegetarian meal.” If they seem confused, be sure to explain to them that you are avoiding meat and dairy.
BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE: Ask the waiter if a dish can be altered. For example, ask if you can have brown rice instead of white rice, olive or canola oil instead of vegetable oil, if the chef will leave out sugar and cheese, if you can have extra vegetables, etc.
CHOOSE ETHNIC RESTAURANTS THAT NATURALLY INCLUDE PLANT-BASED OPTIONS, such as: Middle Eastern, Asian, Ethiopian, Mexican, Indian, and Pakistani.
RESEARCH BEFORE YOU EAT: The Internet can be a valuable tool in helping you find vegetarian restaurants in your area. Look at websites such as www.happycow.net or www.vegguide.org, or search for a local city guide, ex. www.vegillinois.com.
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