What to Do When The Food Calls Out to You in Neon from Every Angle
As a stay-at-home mom, I’m always looking for ways to get the kiddo out of the house to burn off some much needed steam. I’m really lucky–I live within walking distance of a super cool outdoor shopping center equipped with Barnes and Noble, outdoor play yards and jungle gyms. But when faced with inclement weather, I’m forced to take the wee thing to an indoor play center that’s surrounded by what else: the dreaded food court. The whole thing is encompassed (yes, 360 degrees) by The Cookie Factory, Sbarro, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels and the like…you get the picture.
So what’s a dieting mom to do when your two year old is begging you for a crème filled chocolate chip no-no?
Some survival tips from yours truly:
1. Eat a snack before you go–This goes for you and the kids. You’re less likely to be hungry and more apt to not let your kids fill up on empty calories and junk.
2. Pack Ahead—Nobody says because you’re surrounded by the food court that you have to eat food court junk. Pack a healthy snack (like crackers and PB, or carrots) that you both can munch on.
3. Go for the Salad—Most food court places offer a few choices for healthy eating. Find a spot that offers a salad. Be leery of the prepackaged ones that have cheese, croutons and other calorie boosters hidden behind the lettuce. PS..Don’t forget the low-cal dressing.
4. Grab a Healthy Sammie—Every food court across the country has some kind of sandwich shop in it, from Subway to Quizno’s. Most offer healthy alternatives and lower calorie sandwiches. Most provide customers with dietary info at the counter which is a good start which choosing. Opt for whole wheat bread and low fat meats, like turkey..oh yeah, and skip the mayo!
5. Just Say NO!—Just because the kiddo’s are eating cookies and French fries doesn’t mean you have to. I let my little one have the cookie, tell myself that I’m not eating it, and I grab a Diet Coke instead.