dining out tips

[gowalking 10,790]

Was out to dinner with four friends last night. I have the band, and another friend is newly sleeved...about three months out. No one at the table knew either of us had WLS and I was a little concerned for my sleeved friend as this was newer to her.

The first thing I did was pick a restaurant that was known for it's fish. I knew she and I would be able to eat fish without any issues. Then I suggested last night that we order dishes to share and all agreed. I knew this would allow us to take what we wanted rather than have a full entree sitting in front of us.

Well...it worked out great. First of all, no one (as usual) was paying attention to how anyone else was eating. I came to realize that fairly quickly after being banded. Second...I made sure we had veggies on the table and a carb as well so we could choose from a balanced selection.

For those with WLS who are faced with eating out, try to make some suggestions as I did regarding the cuisine and ordering, and you will find that your evening (or afternoon) will be positive rather than worrying about whether or not you can enjoy the experience.

[JustWatchMe 7,117]

Great tips!!!! Going out Tuesday with family who does not know I was banded. Needed to read this!

[Bandista 7,466]

Nice! You're such a good friend to help shepherd her through an early dining out experience. I am so happy to be able to eat out anywhere, really. It was one of my concerns pre-surgery, you know, when we're all worried about what we will have to give up.

I was happy to figure out that a Japanese Bento box lunch or dinner is an easy thing to find in most any Asian place. I order mine with salmon without the teriyaki sauce. It's a small portion but pretty much perfect. It's served with veggies that I cut up and eat some of, rice that I skip along with the sushi and shumai. I take a long time fussing with everything and end up taking home the rice and veggies for a meal for some one else in the family another day. The sushi and shumai get gobbled up by the table and every one wins. I think I could eat sushi but I choose not to have any rice. Sometimes I'll have a bite of sashimi but I love grilled salmon so much that's what I'm enjoying most these days.

Tomorrow we have a special occasion, my son's graduation, and we will be going to lunch with a group. I have scoped out the menu in advance and will probably have a salad with chicken or fish on top. May go the Soup route if there's a good thick one. If it was dinner I'd splurge and get the filet mignon. Loving banded life!

[enjoythetime 1,457]

You're so thoughtful! I'm sure your friend felt such relief and comfort because of your efforts!! Great job!