Fast Food Friendly Option After Bariatric Surgery
Thanks to our subscriber MK for submitting this question!
Fast food happens.
No matter how organized you have been since your surgery, there will come a day (if it has not come already!) when you forget your lunch at home or you just don’t have time to do groceries.
Since skipping a meal isn’t an option, here are our best tips for ordering out.
Craving sushi?
You likely will not be able to tolerate your favourite sushi rolls because of the rice and seaweed wrap, however there are several other equally satisfying options on every Asian-style restaurant menu to consider.
Indulge in an order of tartar or sashimi. These rice-less options are easier to digest.
Don’t be afraid to ask if your favourite sushi rolls can be made with a cucumber wrap instead of the traditional seaweed wrap. This is often a ‘low carb’ option on sushi menus.
Order a side of edamame beans. These soybeans are not only a good source of protein, but they are also rich in fibre.
Try a protein rich Asian soup. Asian-style restaurants often have a traditional soup with eggs, tofu, chicken, and/or shrimp. Prioritize the solid pieces and leave most of the broth behind.
Salmon or tuna salad. Most sushi restaurants have a simple green salad with a seared piece of fish and a flavourful salad dressing.
Sandwiches & Wraps
Choose a sandwich on toasted bread. If it is a large sandwich, remove the top piece of bread. Great options include: chicken salad, egg salad, tuna salad and deli meats.
Wraps are also a good option. Opt for baked chicken rather than crispy chicken.
Breakfast egg sandwiches
Choose a breakfast wrap or a toasted english muffin sandwich. Skip the bacon and sausage.
Salad
Almost all restaurants now have a green salad with chicken. Again, opt for grilled chicken instead of crispy chicken.
Other high protein options include: taco salads, chickpea salads and bean salads.
Chili
Whether you choose the vegetarian or meat version, chili packs a lot of protein. They are also very easy to digest making them the perfect option if you have recently transitioned to solid food.
Here are some other helpful tips to challenge those old fast food habits:
Skip the combo option… yes, even if it’s cheaper!
Don’t order a drink. You will be less tempted to drink and eat at the same time if you don’t have a refreshing beverage staring you down during your meal.
Eat in the restaurant instead of in the car. If you are driving and eating, food is more likely to block. You can’t be mindful if you are multitasking!
Choose foods described as: grilled, baked, sautéed, broiled, steamed, boiled, etc. more often. These cooking methods are lower in calories.
Many corner stores and gas stations now have ‘grab and go’ options in their fridges such as sandwiches, salads, protein shakes, yogurt parfaits, etc. Next time you get gas, make a mental note of 3 appropriate meal options you could choose if you were in a pinch.
Bon appétit!
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– Lisa & Monica
P.S. Need more help to learn how to eat out while eating balanced? Chat with your bariatric dietitian today.
