Hey everyone!

I hope this post finds you well on your journey! If you’re like me, you know that dining out can sometimes feel like a bit of a challenge. Between deciphering menus and communicating our dietary needs, it can be overwhelming. But I’ve found a little trick that has made my restaurant outings much smoother: a custom “medical alert and request card”!

Why a Card?

As bariatric patients, we have specific needs that often don’t fit into standard restaurant offerings. Whether it’s portion control, food choices, or avoiding certain ingredients, it’s crucial that we communicate these needs clearly. This is where the card comes in handy. It acts as a conversation starter with the staff, ensuring they understand our requirements without us having to explain our entire journey every time.

My Experience

I created a simple card that outlines my dietary needs and requests. It’s short and to the point, which makes it easy for restaurant staff to read quickly. I printed it out, laminated it for durability, and now I carry it in my wallet. It has made a significant difference during my outings, allowing me to focus on enjoying the meal and company rather than stressing about my order.

comparison of what a woman ordered vs what she ate at 5 mo post op from gastric sleeve

How You Can Get Started

To make it even easier for you, I’ve attached a generic card that you can print and use. Feel free to tweak the details to better suit your needs! Additionally, I’ve included a link to a Canva Design file, so you can customize your own card if you prefer a personal touch.

Final Thoughts

Dining out doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With a little preparation and a handy card in your pocket, you can confidently navigate restaurant menus while staying true to your dietary needs. I hope this tip helps you as much as it has helped me!

Remember, we’re all in this together, and sharing our experiences can make our journeys a little easier. Happy dining, everyone!

xoxo, molly

Generic Card (for Download)

How to Save and Print an Image from My Blog

  1. Find the Image: Select the image you are wanting to save.
  2. Right-Click the Image: If you’re using a mouse, right-click directly on the image. If you’re on a laptop or touchpad, you may need to use two fingers or click and hold.
  3. Select “Save Image As…”: From the menu that appears, click on “Save Image As…” This will allow you to choose where to save the image on your device.
  4. Choose a Location: Select a folder or location on your computer where you’d like to save the image, and click “Save.” Make sure to remember where you saved it!
  5. Open the Saved Image: Navigate to the folder where you saved the image and double-click to open it.
  6. Print the Image:
    • For Windows: Click on the printer icon in the toolbar or press Ctrl + P to open the print dialog. Choose your printer and settings, then click “Print.”
    • For Mac: Click on “File” in the top menu, then select “Print.” Choose your printer and settings, then click “Print.”
  7. Enjoy Your Card: Once printed, you can cut it out, laminate it if you wish, and keep it handy for your next restaurant visit!

If you have any questions or need help, feel free to reach out!

white text that reads "Medical Alert & Request Card" on red background
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