Good Calorie Counts

It’s hidden on the other side of your placemat. You might know it’s there, and you don’t want to look. But you should—the amount of calories in fast food can be startling and by cutting back or making better choices, you can lose even more weight.

Made official on Wednesday, fast food and chain restaurants in New York must give customers calorie information for all options on menus or menu boards. While the restaurants don’t want to give out this information, the people want and need to know. No more hidden secrets! But what if you don’t live in New York? You can ask if the nutritional information is available. If it’s not, don’t give up—just make a smarter, healthier choice. Opt for the kids’ meal instead of a full-size value meal if you’re craving some fast food.

At chain restaurants, like Applebee’s or T.G.I. Friday’s, calorie counts might only be available for select “diet” meals, but you don’t want a limited selection. Try only eating a portion of the serving (which is probably enough for two or three people!) and saving the rest for later. Or share with your friend…you’ll save calories and cash!

Now substitute a dash of exercise instead of salt with your small French fry, and you’ll be at your goal in no time! [Reuters]