Going out for brunch, lunch or dinner is an activity many people enjoy, but it can hinder weight loss efforts.
Speaking to GB News, a dietician explained how where you eat affects your goals.
Dining out is a great way to socialise with friends and family, but menus can often be full of tempting foods that are not always great for the waistline.
Getting starters, sides and desserts can add extra calories to your day which can knock you out of a calorie deficit.
It is not always easy to know the nutrition of food prepared in a restaurant
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It is also not necessarily clear what goes into food prepared by others, even if it appears to be a healthy option, dietician for Hoag Orthopedic Institute Reema Kanda claimed.
Swapping meals out for homecooked foods means slimmers will have a better understanding of what they are eating and can ensure their meals are packed full of protein, fibre and nutrients.
The expert said: "Part of the weight loss journey for anyone is going to be maintaining control of eating habits.
"No one is perfect, but mindful eating can be such an empowering practice, and a great way to take control.
"On average people who eat at home are consuming more fruits and vegetables and a higher fiber intake.
"Eating at home is a huge factor in mindful eating, as you really have to be aware of the ingredients you bring into the home."
Of course, meals out don't need to be avoided completely. Britons can treat themselves and still stay on track with calories if they adjust other meals.
It is also possible to make healthy choices at restaurants with customisations, and more places including calories on the menu make it easier to track.
If you are trying to lose weight, you will achieve quicker results by incorporating exercise into your routine.
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Cooking at home makes it easy to control what you eat
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Not only does this burn calories, but it also helps you build muscle, boost your metabolism and improve your health and mood. A weight loss coach shared that daily walks are a "non-negotiable" when trying to slim down.
She suggested aiming for an hour in total each day. On walking, the NHS advises: "Walking is simple, free and one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier.
"Sometimes overlooked as a form of exercise, walking briskly can help you build stamina, burn excess calories and make your heart healthier.
"You do not have to walk for hours. A brisk 10-minute daily walk has lots of health benefits and counts towards your 150 minutes of weekly exercise, as recommended in the physical activity guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64."