Ordering food at restaurants has never been so confusing. Items on a menu include labels such as “gluten-free,” “dairy-free,” or “all-natural”, but how do you know what the healthiest options are? At MediPlan Diet, we’re committed to providing you with the best weight loss advice and support to help you achieve your weight loss goals. Read below to learn about the most common restaurant menu items to avoid.
1. Smoothies
Smoothies are advertised as healthy options, but this isn’t always true. Depending on the ingredients used, smoothies can contain more calories than you think. For example, a smoothie consisting of fruits and ice cream contains anywhere from 1,000 to 1,500 calories and 20 grams of sugar. Look for smoothies containing mostly vegetables, like cucumbers and spinach, and pass on the tropical fruit smoothies.
2. Loaded Baked Potatoes
Potatoes contain essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A baked potato loaded with sour cream and bacon contains roughly 500 calories and high levels of sodium and carbohydrates. Don’t let the benefits of a healthy potato go to waste! Skip the toppings and opt for the sweet potato instead.
3. Bagels
Bagels are high in carbohydrates and calories. Everyday consumption of bagels can contribute to high blood pressure, increased calorie intake, and weight gain. Try substituting bagels for a wheat toast to lower calorie intake and promote weight loss.
4. Trail Mix
Certain brands of trail mix contain butter, candy pieces, and high levels of sodium. Before purchasing trail mix, refer to the ingredient list on the back of the product. Look for brands of trail mix high in healthy fats containing nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
5. Omelets
Eggs consist of proteins designed to help you lose weight. However, omelets filled with salted meats and dairy minimize the benefits of consuming eggs. Unlock the weight management benefits of eggs by removing the filling of the omelet. Replace the meats and cheeses with fresh herbs for a delicious, well-balanced breakfast.
Weight Management Tips
Check out these two tips to help you stick to your diet and make meal choices in line with your weight loss goals.
1. Be Careful of “Low-Fat”, “Dairy-Free”, “All-Natural” Foods
Be aware of how food products are advertised. Although many products claim to have “low-calorie” or “fat-free” recipes, many still contain high levels of calories, sugars, and carbohydrates. Before heading to the grocery store, research different food brands online to identify products suitable for your weight management goals.
2. Keep Track of Your Weight Loss Goals
Track your weight management by:
- Recording your daily calorie intake
- Identifying problematic ingredients (trans fats, sodium, carbohydrates)
- Collecting delicious, healthy recipes you like
It’s helpful to commit your weight loss goals to paper. Your daily notes create a useful log of information to easily reference.
MediPlan Diet Guarantee
Losing weight isn’t easy, but you aren’t alone. From your initial medical screening to monthly consultations with a doctor or nurse practitioner, we are here for you.
Call MediPlan Diet Services at 901-362-7546 to get a personalized health plan and continuous support from our team of experts. A happy, healthier you is right around the corner.