To lose weight, most experts agree: Counting calories is the best way to a slimmer bod. Yet research published in the British Medical Journal says that many of us underestimate how many calories we’re really eating–especially when we eat at fast food restaurants.
“Nearly a quarter of adults, adolescents, and (parents of) school age children underestimated meal calorie content by 500 or more calories,” say researchers, whose work was funded by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. “Noticing calorie information in the restaurant had no effect on the accuracy of calorie estimations.”
Examining a total of 1,800 adults, 1,100 teenagers, and 330 children in New England, researchers interviewed them to see how accurately they calculated their calorie intake at fast food restaurants, such as Burger King, Subway, and McDonald’s. Researchers then compared their estimates to the correct estimates listed on the fast food’s restaurant’s website–and the news didn’t bode too well for those on a diet.
“At least two thirds of all participants underestimated the calorie content of their meals, with about a quarter underestimating the calorie content by at least 500 calories,” say researchers. “Adult and adolescent diners at Subway restaurants estimated lower calorie content than diners at the other chains. These findings suggest a consistent “health halo” for Subway in these age groups.”
And this so-called “health halo” has researchers concerned, as it shows that people underestimate calories more frequently if they perceive food to be healthier. Unfortunately, healthy food doesn’t always translate to fewer calories–something most people in the study didn’t understand.
How to Estimate Your Calories the Right Way
Although it’s best to eat meals at home, sometimes it’s just not possible with 12-hour work days, sudden family emergencies, and other errands wrecking havoc on an otherwise normal day-to-day routine. For those who need food fast, dining at a fast food restaurant is the easiest solution, though tracking calories aren’t always easy. So how do you stay accurate with your caloric intake while out?
- Always check the nutrition information. In the study, over 20 percent of the adult participants said they noticed the nutrition information posted in the restaurant–yet only 5 percent actually used that information. Don’t be a statistic: Only buy food when you know its exact calorie information. If you can’t find how many calories your meal has, then don’t eat it.
- Don’t confuse healthy food for low-calorie food. While opting for a healthy meal at a fast food restaurant is a good way to keep your heart healthy, it doesn’t mean you’re eating fewer calories–and you’ll also gain weight if you overindulge. Your best bet: Find out the calorie information beforehand, and don’t order more food simply because you think it’s healthy.
- For easy access to calorie information on-the-go, consider installing an app on your smartphone. Apps such as Fast Food Locator and Fast Food Finder contain detailed information about popular foods at chain restaurants–such as that juicy Whopper you’ve been wanting to eat for ages. Be warned though: Not all apps are free, and may not contain all foods found in your local chain restaurant.
Readers: What are your tips for eating fewer calories at restaurants?
Source:
Study: People Often Underestimate Calories at Fast Food Restaurants – BMJ.com
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