Obesity risk is a serious concern as this disease has reached epidemic proportions across the country. That said, the reason many of us suffer from this disease has to do with many of our normal everyday lifestyle habits. That said, did you know your favorite restaurant may be contributing to your weight gain and risk of obesity?
According to many obesity experts – including those behind a recent America’s Health report – the amount you eat out can have a direct impact on your risk of obesity. These habits are among those with the most direct link to our weight gain.
How Restaurants Contribute to Obesity Risk
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the number of calories served in restaurant meals is rapidly increasing. This is playing a direct role in the obesity risk of individuals who eat out on a regular basis. In fact, U.S. Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A.) data shows that one third of the calories eaten by Americans comes from restaurant food. That is nearly double the rate of what it had been only thirty years ago.
As a result, our obesity risk is far more dependent on the calorie count found within each meal our restaurants serve. After all, if we’re eating out for one third of the calories we eat – double what used to be the case – then we are reliant on restaurants for one third of the calories that will be impacting our obesity risk.
How Often Do You Eat Out?
The U.S.D.A. study showed that about half of American adults are eating out at least three times every week. Moreover, 12 percent of Americans are eating out seven times per week – the equivalent to once per day. This, on its own, is not necessarily contributing to obesity risk.
However, because of the price of food, many people are choosing fast food in order to be able to afford their meals. The outcome is that the regular calorie intake is skyrocketing as fast food meals are notorious for being extremely high in calories. In fact, it is not uncommon for a fast food meal – including a main dish, side and beverage – to contain a full day’s worth of calories.
That said, fast food isn’t the only type of meal containing too many calories. When you eat out, it’s hard to know exactly how food was prepared or how much salt, oil and other ingredients impacting weight are included in sauces or cooking.
If you want to take control over your weight management, try to minimize the amount you’re eating out. By preparing your own food and bringing it with you, you’ll reduce your obesity risk. Alternately, pay attention to portion size and make a concerted effort to choose more nutrient dense options.