Are You Consuming More Calories Than You Realize?
by Dana Burnett
Are you a label reader? Do you monitor your calorie intake? It may surprise you that nutritional facts posted on prepackaged foods may not be accurate. A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found the calorie content can be greater than what is posted on the label. Researchers measured the energy values of 29 restaurant foods, finding the energy value was 18% higher than the stated value. Ten frozen meals had 8% more calories than what was published on the package. The inaccurate calculations for reduced-calorie meals obtained from restaurants or grocery stores could affect an individual’s ability to maintain or lose weight.
Fast food vs. Restaurant food – Calorie intake
When you hear fast food, the first thing that may come to mind is a hamburger and fries. You may think a sit-down restaurant is healthier than running through the drive-thru, but you may need to think again. More calories can be consumed from an entree at a sit-down restaurant than a fast food meal.
The first choice for a healthy meal often comes from meals prepared at home, but when you are on-the-go fast food may have smaller portions and fewer calories than meals from table service restaurants. Researchers obtained data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals, which indicated fast food products have more calories, but smaller portions than sit-down venues. Therefore, calorie intake is lower in an average fast food meal.
In strange contrast, researchers also suggest individuals that consume a restaurant meal eat less food for the remainder of the day. This implies fast food may result in more calorie intake in the end. With the confusion over which is healthier, it is best to consider more balanced homemade meals to keep you and your family healthy. When you are on-the-go, make smart choices with simpler, lighter meals. If it is possible, plan ahead. Prepare home cooked meals for the road.
References
Binkley JK.Calorie and Gram Differences between Meals at Fast Food and Table Service Restaurants. Review of Agricultural Economics, 2008; 30(4):750.
Urban LE, Dallal GE, Robinson LM, Ausman LM, et al. The accuracy of stated energy contents of reduced-energy commercially prepared foods. J of American Dietetic Assc. 2010 Jan; 110(1):116-123.
