Type 1 Diabetes Dosing for Steakhouse Meals: Expert Advice from a Diabetes Dietitian at Charley's Steakhouse | #T1D Dietitian

Have you ever gone to a restaurant, indulged in a massive meal, and ended up with high blood sugar hours later? 

One of the most common battles for someone living with diabetes, as you don’t have full control over what’s available at that meal….

Yet, this doesn’t mean that all is lost. There are a few helpful tips and tricks you can keep in mind when eating out to help keep you healthy and also allow you to enjoy a regular, stress-free social life.

First things first, DON'T PANIC.

It's normal to feel overwhelmed when dining out with diabetes. With some planning and preparation, you can still enjoy your favorite restaurant meals without compromising your blood sugar levels. Let's break it down together.

Start by identifying the carb sources on your plate. Take a look at the dish and try to estimate the amount of carbs you're about to consume. For example, you might be eyeing a Lobster Mac and Cheese. This dish is a carb-heavy option, but it doesn't mean you can't have any. You can also consider splitting the dish with a dining partner or taking a portion of it home for later.

Next, It's important to consider not only the carbohydrate content of your meal but also the fat and protein content, as they can also affect blood sugar levels. Here's why, protein takes longer to digest than carbohydrates and can cause a slow and steady increase in blood sugar levels over several hours. On the other hand, fat slows down the digestion of food, which can delay the absorption of carbohydrates and cause a rise in blood sugar levels several hours after eating. For example, a pork chop and lamb chop both contain a decent amount of fat and protein. By taking this into account, you can adjust your insulin dosing accordingly and avoid unpleasant blood sugar spikes.

Remember, there's no need to stick to boring, low-carb meals when eating out. Eating out should be a fun and enjoyable experience, and there's no need to sacrifice your favorite foods or compromise your blood sugar control. By being mindful of your carb intake, estimating the carb content of your meal, and accounting for the fat and protein content, you can make informed choices and adjust your insulin dosing as needed. Always prioritize your health and well-being, but also don't be afraid to indulge in moderation and savor the flavors and textures of restaurant cuisine. With a little planning and preparation, you can strike a balance between blood sugar control and culinary satisfaction.

I hope this was helpful! If you have any questions or would like more tips on how to manage your blood sugar levels while eating out, please feel free to drop a comment below.

My team and I are always here to help.