As our lifestyles get busier, we tend to look for more convenience. Meal preparation after a long, busy day might be the last thing we want to do, so we opt for dining out. This may not be the best option for your health.
Although it's fast, easy and convenient, eating out too frequently can make it hard to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Here's why:
Calorie overload: In most cases, restaurant and fast food meals are not prepared with calorie friendly ingredients. Research shows that the average entrée in a chain restaurant is 674 calories, the side has almost 300, beverage 400 and if you add dessert, add another 400-500 calories. If you do the math, that is nearly enough calories for an entire day.
Large portions: One of the main reasons for calorie overload is portion overload. When you are presented with large portions, you often eat beyond the point of being full. Larger portions lead to overeating. It is common to "super-size" at fast food chains, it is such a "good deal", but not a good deal for your health.
Too much salt: Sodium content in restaurants and fast food places. The statistics are 1848 mg per 1000 calories in a fast food place and 2090 mg per 100 calories in a restaurant. The recommended daily limit for 3 meals is 2300 mg per day.
If possible, try to eat out less. Try having a meal preparation day, use a crock pot or take turns coking at home. If you do have to eat out here are a few tips to help you make healthier choices:
- Order water instead of soda (save calories and money!)
- Request whole grain breads for sandwiches, toast and dinner rolls
- Start with a veggie loaded salad, dressing on the side
- Order steamed vegetables as your side
- Choose broiled or grilled over fried
- Skip dessert or order fruit
- Share a meal
- When ordering fast food - don't "Super-size"
Read more on MMHD's For Your Health
No comments:
Post a Comment