Bootcamp Q & A

An Eating Out Plan-of-Attack

Q: My day planner is packed with lunch meetings with wedding vendors, weekend brunches with my bridesmaids, and dinner dates with my future in-laws. Don't tell me to cancel — I can't. But how can I eat out without blowing my diet?

A: Okay, here's the deal: You'll reap maximum benefits from Bridal Bootcamp, including the Meal Plan, if you follow it to the letter, but I realize there will be times when you have to be flexible. Lucky for you, I know a few ways you can stay on track — and maintain your newly buff bod well after you've graduated from Bridal Bootcamp.

Your best defense when dining out: Be prepared! Most restaurants post their menus online — check beforehand so you'll have time to really think about your choices. You might even find nutrition information for their menu items online — a bonus. If there's no Web site, call the restaurant and request a menu e-mailed or faxed to you. Or choose a place you frequent since you already know the healthy options there.

If you're iffy about what translates into healthy fare, look for dishes that are steamed, grilled, roasted, or baked. Avoid anything battered, fried, or smothered with cheese or cream sauce.

If nothing on the menu looks even close to low-cal, don't be afraid to ask your server to hold the fries, cheese, or mayo — and serve sauces and dressings on the side. You are the customer, after all! If carbs are your foe (those on the High-Protein Plan, I'm talking to you), hide the bread basket. Most desserts are off-limits to all — too much refined sugar. However, my Carb-Centric girls can enjoy a small plate offresh fruit, while my High-Protein ladies can help themselves to a teeny bit of a cheese platter (that is, an ounce or two — not a bite more). Balanced girls can have either (but NOT both!).