The weekend is a big test for me..... I tend to dine out each evening on weekends. Will need that extra self-control that will keep me within the guidelines of my weight loss goals. I was a food manufacturer and food consultant in Europe. I'm very frustrated by the retail USA food industry that encourages us to eat incorrectly from birth. Fats. sugars, salt, bad oils and extra large portions. The restaurant industry is no better offering extra large portions etc. They won't change but I you and I can... It's talking to myself but all this helps.... bill

Bill, you are right on the button. One think that I have found that helps it either go with the intention of splitting with someone or when you order your food ask them to either put 1/2 in a box before you even get the plate or ask for a box with the meal and box it before you even start eating. It sound weird and I have gotten some strange looks but it really helps with the out of sight, out of mind mentality and I feel stupid if I asked for a box and don't have anything to put in it. If you don't want to ask before they even bring your food then take a few bites and casually say "wow this is a lot more than I expected, can I get a box." Hope it helps.

Hi all, I have found that eating before I go out with friends helps. I'll eat a small dinner (enough to barely satisfy me) and then when I go to the restaurant, I'll order a salad and/or soup. This way I'm not starving and looking at the menu like's it's my last meal. I also give my friends permission to not allow me to order things off the menu that I can't have. If they're your friends, they'll be there to help you.

I agree - portion control in the US is just crazy. It seems like every restaraunt goes out of their way to supply about 3 times as much food as you need. It's very difficult to avoid when eating out. Good luck

william, you're not talking to yourself my friend. We're here with ya Dining out is so difficult, the temptations are just... BAM, in your face! You're totally right about the portion sizes and all the yucky stuff they put into the food. I've been trying to convince friends who are in the mood to go out to dinner to go to places where I know I can get healthy options - like sushi restaurants where I can get yummy miso soup, edamame, and some nice lean protein in the sushi. But sometimes, we go italian and... what are ya gonna do?? Hang in there, it sounds like you're doing great with the will power so far. You can do it!