I have gained the reputation from my friends and family of being a dining Diva, but I prefer to call myself the "Dining Princess".

I almost always create my own menu when dining out. I truly am very sweet and never "demand" things from my waiters. I simply explain my situation and ask nicely.

I have come such a long way with my body and I refuse to let a night out with friends throw me off track. My friends may tease me and pressure me to indulge in fried appetizers and double chocolate dessert, but one slip up may lead to more and more.

Plus, after a few drinks no one is really paying attention to my plate.

So take a walk with me as I describe an evening out with a Dining Princess.

Before arriving at the restaurant, I have already checked out the online menu (if available) and decided on what I will be eating that night. I also try to sneak in an apple or protein shake 30 minutes before my arrival,to prevent me from binging.

I always like to make a promise before I arrive.

 "I promise that I will only order the grilled chicken and veggies, and pass on the chocolate dessert!"

Promises keep me on track.

. H2O is always my choice of drink and I always try to down one glass before my meal arrives.

When reviewing the menu, I always browse through the soups, appetizers and salads first, then the entrees.

· Soup is always filling, but may contain a lot of sodium. I opt for broth-based, vegetable filled soups and pass on creamy calorie packed soups and purees.

· Appetizers are great because the portions are perfect and you can pick a few as your meal. Shrimp cocktails and chicken skewers are always yummy.

. Salads are always great and nutritious if made simple. Dressing should always be asked to be on the side. Avoid fancy salads that contain nuts, tortillas, fruit etc. They have too many hidden calories and usually come in large portions.Â

· Entrees are always tempting! If I do choose and entree, I’ll fill up on a salad before. Almost all my dining outs are during the evening so my choices always consist of a lean meat such as chicken and fish, and a generous side of grilled or steamed vegetables. If my entree comes with a starch such as mashed potatoes, I nicely ask my waiter to remove them and add extra vegetables. If I was having lunch, I may go for a small baked white or sweet potato, or brown rice.

· Desserts are allowed in moderation! I believe that you should enjoy your life, and a little bit of sweetness is not so bad. At the end of the day, the total number of calories is what matters. I almost never get dessert, but if I’m out to an amazing restaurant that is known for their homemade tiramisu then I will indulge in a few bites.

I always offer to share my dessert with the dinner party to avoid temptation of eating it all up.

Don’t forget to ask if they can create a fruit plate for you. This is a great alternative to take care of your sweet tooth.

Try a warm beverage after your meal to help seal your sweet cravings, and soothe your belly!

A hot cup of green tea will soothe your belly and keep your cravings at bay.

Chewing a piece of gum right after also takes care of my sweet tooth. I always have a pack of Orbit gum in my purse. It’s piercing peppermint flavor works very well in suppressing my appetite. Nothing tastes good after brushing your teeth.

As long as you are smiling and stay sweet, I promise your waiter will cater to your health needs. Please do not be a diva.

I know there are lots of dining princesses out there!

I would love to hear how you have created your own menu while dining out.

Love,

Ghada