What makes you fatter? Fast foods or desserts?

I have repeatedly been asked about what makes you fatter, fast foods or desserts and pastries. At least we could all agree that neither option is healthier, but both taste sooo good. Anyways, in order to answer the question of what may be really the worst between the two, we must analyze many variables, so the best answer will always be: DEPENDS.

Very rarely in nutrition we find blacks and whites, usually everything is seen in gray tones because there will always be variables that can determine if a food is healthy or not. Although a hamburger is called the same anywhere in the world, the method of preparation, the quality of the ingredients and the portions are what make it different where ever you eat it.

From the foregoing the first tip of this post is derived: If your nutritionist is one of those who demonizes desserts and fast foods you should begin to seriously consider a change in your nutritional adviser.

There are many quick meals or desserts that we can do in our home to calm those cravings and actually can even be considered healthy. Take into account that usually when eating away from home, portions tend to be higher and the method of preparation of foods is less healthy as restaurants focus on flavoring food. Flavor is commonly obtained with higher amounts of sugar and/or fats.

But if you are one of those who sticks to those "Cheat Meals" and really want to eat out, I would tell you that beyond worrying about sinning with something sweet or salty, pay attention to the following tips:

-Try to choose "craft" restaurants, those that cook things as if they were made at home. Most likely these foods will be of better quality than the traditional fast food restaurants.

-Be aware of your sense of fullness. If you are already satisfied simply stop eating and take the leftovers home, many times the next day food tastes even better.

- “Share your plate”. Remember the portion problem, many restaurants serve much more than you should eat, so sharing is an excellent option, it even becomes cheaper.

-If you already satisfied the fast food craving, try to avoid the dessert or vice versa. That double eating can really cost you. In any case consider also sharing it.

Take into account that depending on your nutritional goals, that weekly Cheat Meal could sabotage all the advances made in the previous days or weeks.

My best recommendation is: If you want a hamburger, pizza, hot dog, wings or dessert, try to make it at home. I am sure you will satisfy the craving and at the same time will have control of the preparation in order to make it healthier. Remember that fresh food will ALWAYS be better than canned or frozen food. So if you want chips, do not buy the bag of frozen potatoes. Its best if you cut the potato and cook it in oil if you would like, it will be healthier.

Bon Appetit!

#english