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Can You Resist These Desserts? You Must!

Fitday Editor
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One of America's biggest fast food chains (hint: its mascot wears a crown) rolled out a new summer menu recently. It's full of new tempting sandwiches and a new intriguing dessert. Chances are if you're really watching what you eat, you're going to avoid the restaurant altogether. However, if you've always struggled with making the right choices when it comes to meals, then you may fall prey to the new Bacon Sundae.

This sweet and salty ending to your life meal can add an additional 510 calories, 75 grams of carbohydrates, 18 grams of fat, 10 grams of saturated fat, and 670 milligrams of sodium to the already high calorie/high fat meal you may just have consumed. Unfortunately this is not the worst dessert menu item out there.

Another big chain (hint: it rhymes with Rulver's) offers a three scoop banana split that tops in at 1,345 calories, 149 grams of carbohydrates, 74 grams of fat, 32 grams of saturated fat, and 443 milligrams of sodium. The real concern is whether it's appropriate to offer these items on the menu or not?

It's no surprise that we have a problem in our society with obesity. As people are trying to take control of their health by making better food choices and being more active in their lifestyles, they also have to fight the temptations that are being presented to them by our food industry. The direction should be to add menu items that are intriguing but healthy at the same time. Since this isn't always the case and we're surrounded by foods that tempt us, it's up to you and your own willpower to beat the temptations.

There are a few things you can do to overcome the temptation to indulge in an unhealthy dessert. One of these is to choose a healthier option, like a single scoop cone or dish. You can also share this with a friend to cut the calories in half. If fruit or yogurt is an option, you can choose that as well. Some restaurants offer bite-sized desserts, even in trios, so you can choose three and share with your friends. Sharing allows you to have a few bites to beat the craving for sweets without having to feel bad about splurging on your healthy eating plan.

One thing to remember is to find balance in your diet. It's not always best to completely restrict yourself from foods you love because you may find yourself over-indulging to the point of regret. However, you need to show control and willpower when making choices. It's important to not let the big food industries win by purchasing items that should not even be on the menu. Take a stand for your health.

Amy Reidenbach is a registered dietitian with a desire to help others learn about nutrition. She has many years of experience in the food service and health care industries. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from the University of Wisconsin - Stout and a Master of Science in Human Nutrition from Eastern Michigan University. Amy uses her personal life experiences to fuel her passion for nutrition and the overall well-being of those around her.



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