So, I must say Medifast is making a difference. While I did not lose any weight last week, I am feeling much better. I can tell I have much more energy then I had a few weeks ago and feel like my clothes are fitting better. I am also not getting as swollen in my legs and feet. As promised, this week I want to tell you how I handled eating out several times for business meetings and attending two parties while staying on plan.
First, let me just say how restaurants are MUCH more accommodating then I had realized. Growing up as a kid with terrible allergies, I remember the days where asking for a substitution or different cooking method resulting in rolling eyes and sighs...but times have changed my friends. I have been SO pleasantly surprised how many waiters and waitresses not only will tell you how a dish is prepared and how it can be prepared in a more healthy way, but they will also help you get items that are not anywhere on the menu, like plain grilled chicken breast with no sauce, butter, etc. In addition, I have found that when telling the wait staff what I need and why, they have been so super supportive! They make a point of not putting the bread down right in front of me, or will make a point of telling me how impressed they were that I did not dive into the bowl of amazingly delicious smelling carbs that the person next to me was eating. So, big lesson for me...It never hurts to ask!
When dining out, I have found that grilled chicken is a pretty safe staple that most restaurants have. I have also found salads to be a good bet, though I was not aware how much hidden fat there can be in a salad (not even counting the dressing). I've become best friends with the salad place downtown where I can choose exactly what I want and how much of each ingredient. Also, prior to Medifast, I was not aware that vegetables other than potatoes and corn had a lot of carbs. I've now learned I need to limit my intake of peas, edamae, onions, and some other veggies while I am on my weight loss phase.
I have also learned that it is critical to eat a meal (either my lean & green or a Medifast meal) before going to a restaurant or party. It really helps to control cravings and keeps me from over-indulging on the wrong foods. Making sure to get tons of water in throughout the day is also proving to be a life-safer, even for me and I really don't like drinking water.
So, for next week, fingers crosse that the scale goes down and starts to match how I am feeling!
*In the interest of full disclosure, Medifast is providing me with their services and food free of charge in order for me to be able to write an accurate review of their program. I am not receiving any other form of compensation from MediFast and all opinions are my own.
