My husband and I were just informed that we are invited to Celebrate his Uncle's birthday with his family tomorrow. They've chosen the Olive Garden. None of them know that I had surgery 8 weeks ago. I don't intend to share this fact.

I haven't been having trouble eating solids -- I am at about 2 oz of true solids at a sitting. I haven't had any non-naturally occurring carbs and plan my eating pretty rigidly. SO, I looked up the menu so that I could make an educated decision about what I will eat tomorrow.

Can you help me decide what is better? I considered ordering Soup, but I really don't like any they offer and I am NOT eating Pasta nor bread.

So here's what I've narrowed it down to -- of course I won't eat it all. I am a bit nervous not having eaten either of these dishes before with my new pouch (I call her Matilda) -- so I am also concerned with what you think will sit best, too. Thank you!

Baked Tilapia with Shrimp 340 calories

total fat: 11

Sat fat: 5

Sodium: 1070

Carbs: 14

Fiber: 5

Protein: 48

or Seafood Brodetto 410 calories

Total fat: 14

Saturated fat: 3

Sodium: 2250

15 carbs (without bread that accompanies)

47 Protein

I would order the tilapia with steamed vegetables. Have them keep the shrimp (unless you want to take it home for your husband to have later). In a large group people seldom notice what are or aren't eating. Eat your Protein first, small bites and eat slowly. Engage in conversations so no one will pay much attention to your plate. You can pull this off. Try not to say that you're not feeling well. It's not a good place to go, on the contrary, you're doing quite well but you're just not hungry for some reason - go figure! Good luck. I've was in this situation many times in the beginning. I became a professional food on the plate arranger. If you don't want them to know... that's the plan. Don't stress. You've made a healthy decision - be happy and enjoy the company.

I often just order a shrimp cocktail... your two fish choices sound like smart ones... Just only eat 1/4 cup total. Fish is always a great go to.. I always ask them to prepare it with miniumal fats and if you need to fake it... just say it is not to your likeing... take it home and have dinner all week from the leftovers.. Your now a cheap date! LOL Smart patient to plan ahead... Enjoy your family first!

Whatever you decide try to relax while there-stress/nervousness can upset your pouch and make whatever you're eating less agreeable

Either of those would be fine. Keep in mind that the nutritional values are for an entire meal and you'll be eating a very small amount. So you'll be getting far less calories, fats, etc. than what is listed. Go with what sounds good to eat. As long as you're picking something that doesn't have horrifying nutritional numbers, you'll be fine

They also have a citrusy chicken dish, I can't remember the name. That's pretty fair in nutritional value as well.

Check the soup. It may be the best option