Mean Greens: Diet Death By Salad

Save to notebook Email article Print article More articles

By Mia Bolaris-Forget

I was thinking to myself just the other night as I went for my daily walk/job about how much more difficult it is these days to stay fit and trim. And, not just because of “age”.

While doctors confirm that after the age of 21 our metabolism significantly slows, especially for ladies, giving way to more fat and less muscle, the fact that most of us sit for a living, they add, isn’t likely, even if we’re exercising, doing any of us any good.

How can that be, especially when most of us are passing up the burger and fries for a “nutritionally-sound” salad?

Well, the shocking news is that unless your making your salad at home, those offered by fast-food establishments often have more calories than a double burger. In fact, studies show that there is little caloric difference or nutritional value between fast-food sandwiches and “speedy” salads. And, in some instances, consuming a full-portion of salad may contain more calories than a junior-size burger.

And, if calories aren’t a major concern, consider that these salads are often heaping with a hefty helping of sugar and carbs. In fact, some varieties have more sugar than a can of coke.

However, portion size IS a significant factor, with experts noting that most of these healthful helpings are BIG, and suggesting to salad lovers that they minimize their portion and their intake. But, they caution against consuming all the “goodies”, including the chicken and cheese, while leaving behind all the (non-fatty) greens.

So, if you’re dieting you may want to consider having that burger, just so long as your forego the fries.

Long Island Health, Fitness & Beauty Articles > Mean Greens: Diet Death By Salad