Buffets are a great place to bring a family. There is always something for everyone. Even the pickiest little eater will find something at a buffet. The problem is for many adults the lure of the buffet and the promise of all you can eat goes right to their hips. The dessert line is often what does even the most strong-willed dieter in. So what can you do if you are a buffet and you want to stay on your diet?
Take Your Time: When you get there go look at all the food and what is being offered. Decide what you think looks good and what you can go without. This will help you make wiser decisions. Once you put a load of mashed potatoes on your plate and then see macaroni and cheese you will likely keep piling. So decide a few things before diving in.
Eat Salad: Fill up a full plate with salad. Buffets usually have a great array of salad fixings so take advantage. Select a dressing that is low fat and non creamy. A low fat vinaigrette is a better selection than low fat ranch. Low fat creamy dressings usually make up for the fat by adding in sugar. Challenge yourself to make a very colorful plate of salad and eat it all before going up for your next course.
Limit Number of Plates: Decide that you will only eat from 3 to 4 plates. Three plates will be plenty especially if you decide to have soup. If you do have soup stay away from cream based soups. Your first plate will be all veggies. Next, try to get protein and make a few decisions on fun sides. Try to get things you normally would not make yourself. Keep the portions small. You will have plenty of food so don’t worry. Limit yourself to one plate for dessert. Either chose one dessert or share with a few in very small portions with others at your table.
Drink Water: Do not waste your calories or sugar on drinks. Also, be sure to drink water in between plates and while you eat. The water will give you a full feeling and keep you from over eating.