Like going out for breakfast with family and friends? Take the stress out of finding diabetes-smart menus because we’ve got you a list prepped for ‘Early Bird’.  Keep reading this blog to find a variety of diabetes-friendly menu options to try here, along with a few helpful tips for eating out.

💯 Tips for Eating Out

Make eating out easier and less stressful for your diabetes by following these simple tips listed below. These help you enjoy your meal and your time with your loved ones, without compromising on your sugars.

  1. Plan Ahead: Before going into the restaurant, take a few minutes to look over the menu and nutritional information online. This way, you have an idea of what options are best for you before sitting down at the table.  
  2. Control Portion Sizes: A great way to control portions is to ask for a to-go box as soon as your meal arrives. By boxing up half the meal, you will avoid overeating just because the food is in front of you.
  3. Eat Slower and Mindfully: Slow down while eating. Eating more slowly helps increase your awareness of how your body feels so that you are more likely to recognize when you’re full.
  4. Choose a Balanced Plate: When eating out, keep the diabetes plate method at the back of your mind. Aim to get a good balance of lean protein, non-starchy vegetables, and whole grains in your meal.

🍳 Main Dish Delights

Looking at a menu can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to find options that are both delicious and healthy for your sugar levels. But at Early Bird, there are plenty of brunch options to enjoy guilt-free! 

  • Strawberry Chicken Pecan Salad: Fresh strawberries, oven-baked chicken breast, candied pecans, cob, and smoked bacon over fresh baby spinach with raspberry vinaigrette.
  • Denver Scramble: Ham, green and red peppers, onions with scrambled eggs and cheddar cheese, served on top of hash browns with toast.
  • Traveler’s Omelet: Chorizo, onion, jalapeno, and pepper jack cheese, topped with house salsa.
  • The Early Bird: 2 eggs cooked to order, hash browns, choice of breakfast meat, and toast
  • Quesabirria Omelet: Slow-cooked braised beef with pepper jack cheese stuffed inside a 3-egg omelet and topped with crisp tortilla strips, cilantro, and onion. Spicy red consommé on the side.

 

Consider swapping hash browns or toast for a side salad or fruit to reduce blood sugar spikes. Remember: One meal doesn’t define your progress. Focus on patterns and consistency, not perfection.

☕ Drink Options

Knowing some drink options beforehand can help you choose a beverage that doesn’t compromise your sugar control. Many times, sweet beverages tend to lead to your blood sugar spiking quickly.

Remember it is important to make healthy choices for each part of your meal. Below are some drink options we recommend you pair with your breakfast.

  • Drip Coffee (unsweetened)
  • Cold Brew (no sugar added)
  • Lemon Water
  • Water
Summary Going out for brunch should get you excited versus stressed about your blood sugars! With a little planning ahead of time and the right menu strategies, you can continue to control your sugars while enjoying some delicious food at Easy Bird. Remember to follow our simple eating out tips to help you make better decisions and enjoy your breakfast!