Dining out can wreak havoc on your diet! Hidden calories, oversized portions and the sheer variety of so many delicious, though often unhealthy, menu choices are just some of the obstacles we face when booking that reservation. That’s why I’ve decided to share my top tips for a guilt-free night out that trims your waistline, without trimming your social life!

Menu Survival Guide:

1. Go online before you dine! Take a look at that menu. Prepare a game plan!

2. Don’t starve to carve: Cutting meals during the day in an effort to save calories will only set you up to overindulge at dinner. Instead, have a small snack to tide you over before going out to eat.

3. Start smart! Have a side salad or broth-based soup to help curb hunger. Studies show that diners who used this method ate 20% less.

4. Minimize vs. supersize: Order two appetizers for your main meal, or share one entrée, or ask your server to wrap half your meal to-go beforehand to keep your portions in check.

5. Balance is beautiful: Instead of having a glass of wine, a slice of bread and dessert — have a glass of wine and split the dessert!

6. Ask and you shall receive: Never be afraid to politely ask your server to make substitutions to better fit your diet needs. Know your menu terms for trimming:

Order: Grilled, roasted, steamed, broiled, baked, or poached meals

Not: Crispy, au gratin, fried, stuffed, creamy, tempura, sautéed, pan-fried, escalloped

Bon appétit!