Learn more about information nutrition; be an educated consumer whether you go to McDonalds, Taco Bell, or Starbucks

Information nutrition: How about McDonalds?: You had a busy morning and needed to grab a quick lunch on your way to a client meeting. You simply did not have time for a leisurely lunch in a sit-down restaurant. You thought about a bagel and fruit in the car but fast food prevailed and the only remaining decision was Burger King or McDonalds. Fruit 0 and Fast Food 1.

Everybody had a crazy day at work and school and the evening includes soccer practice, dance class, and piano lessons. Dinner? Maybe chicken and vegetables with fruit for dessert? Sounds good but no time. How about Quiznos instead? Everybody’s on time but the tally worsens: Fruit 0 and Fast Food 2.

The aforementioned scenarios are familiar for many families. How much thought do they give to information nutrition, though? In many cases, not much. The result is increased obesity rates and numerous other health problems for children and adults. How about a crash course?

Did you know that McDonalds now offers information nutrition at the registers and elsewhere? You can peruse it before you place your order to help you make good decisions. Are you treating your child? Help him or her make good choices: a 4-piece nugget meal with milk and apple dippers has 450 calories and 15 grams of fat. The same meal with French fries instead of apple dippers has 520 calories and 25 grams of fat.

You can join your child in making healthier choices. If you choose a salad, the highest fat content is 20 grams (but be careful of your dressing choices, because they can add a significant amount of fat). Contrast that with a Quarter Pounder with Cheese for 26 grams of fat and 510 calories. Fries? Add 19 grams of fat and 380 calories for a medium order of fries.

Thinking Taco Bell? Information nutrition is available: Does a burrito sound good? How about a Fresco Style 7-layer burrito with beans, lettuce, rice, tomato, and fiesta salsa on a tortilla? Mmm. This will total 380 calories and 8 grams of fat.

Information nutrition for Starbucks: It has been a long day already and you decide to stop at Starbucks before you head back to the office. You are determined to order a coffee and resist the temptations presented by your sweet tooth. You are ambushed, however, by the seasonal offerings: a grande Gingersnap Latte made with 2% milk and topped off with whipped cream sounds like heaven. 340 calories and 13 grams of fat worth.

It is possible to enjoy fast food sensibly. If the rest of your day is healthy and includes recommended amounts of fruits, vegetables, protein, and fiber, a fast food lunch at McDonalds, Taco Bell, Quiznos, or elsewhere does not have to derail it. Examine the menu carefully and determine what fits into your day. Dinner at Applebee’s? Check over the menu and figure out your best bet. Craving a cappuccino or other delicious concoction? Plan an occasional stop at Starbucks for yourself as a treat. If you do it sensibly, you can make it work. If you always deny yourself, you may find that you eventually cave in in grand style with a fast food binge. It is better to do it in moderation. Enjoy!