'I'm a dietician - you can still go out to eat and lose weight by following 5 important rules'
GETTY
It is possible to enjoy meals out while sticking to your fitness goals
Going out for dinner is a great way to socialise and try new foods, but it can make it difficult to stay on track with weight loss goals.
A dietician has shared advice on how to not overeat when in a restaurant.
Dietician from The Slimming Clinic Sarah Abdula explained portion control is one of the biggest barriers to weight loss.
She said: "Portion control is a key factor for weight loss. Many of us don’t know what makes a normal portion – a problem known as ‘portion distortion’."
An expert shared five tips for eating in restaurants
GETTY
Eating portions that are too big can make it difficult to lose weight even when choosing healthy options. Restaurants will often serve bigger portions than people need, so it is important to keep this in mind when eating out.
Sarah continued: "No matter how healthily you eat, you can still put on weight if you’re eating too much."
The expert has already shared tips for watching your portion sizes and knowing when you are full. Now, she reveals five pieces of advice that can be used for those hoping to lose weight while socialising.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Portion control is key for weight loss
GETTYOf course, it is fine to eat a larger meal if hungry or if it fits within your goals. However, these tips can help slimmers stop eating when they are full.
Another way to know if you are satisfied is with the 20-minute rule, the dietician outlined. This involves waiting 20 minutes before getting a second portion.
Sarah added: " It can take a little while for you to feel full after you have eaten. So avoid the temptation to keep eating and see if you get that feeling."