By: Ratasha Iribarren/Columnist
Personally, eating out on a regular basis does not appeal to me because of the uncertainty that comes with consuming an excessive amount of calories and over-proportioned meal sizes. However, a recent trip to Panera Bread answered my prayers when I looked up on the menu and saw the calories that will join my waistline for eating a sandwich and salad combo.
Over a year ago, President Obama signed a health care legislation that included a new requirement for major restaurant chains nationwide to post calorie information on their menus. The law will officially be enforced across the United States next year and requires that all restaurants and retail food businesses with 20 or more locations display their calorie counts for standard items on their menu boards. California and New York City have been leading the menu labeling game for quite some time, but now calorie counts are popping up across major food chains and food retailers across South Florida.
Here is a look at the calorie count for my meal at Panera, as well as a few other low-calorie bites you can find around town.
Half a Panera Bread strawberry poppyseed and chicken salad with half a mozzarella and balsamic vinegar sandwich: 474 calories
Combine the protein power from sweet citrus-herb chicken and crunchy pecans with crisp romaine lettuce, fresh strawberries, mandarin oranges, blueberries, pineapple tidbits and a sugar-free poppyseed dressing to get a refreshing salad that tastes just like candy. Pair it up with calcium-rich mozzarella seasoned with black pepper, salt and fresh basil on a crunchy ciabatta roll for a meal that adheres to all of the food groups.
Note that the mozzarella and balsamic vinegar sandwich is not offered on the menu, so you will need to place a special request, which is what I did since I do not like the tomato part of the tomato mozzarella panini.
Mcdonald’s honey mustard snack wrap (grilled) and fruit n’ yogurt parfait with granola: 410 calories
As you can probably already tell, I am a huge fan of chicken. At under 500 calories, you can enjoy sweet and tangy grilled chicken topped with fresh lettuce and bone-healthy cheese in a small wrap without the greasy mess of the fried, crispy version.
Afterwards, indulge in a satisfyingly sweet low-fat vanilla yogurt layered with strawberries, blueberries and crunchy low-fat granola. The yogurt parfait is so delectable, it almost tastes like ice cream! Almost.
Starbucks vanilla almond biscotti and tall 2% milk cappuccino: 240 calories
Yes, it is possible. Contrary to popular belief, you can treat yourself to a delightful desert without sabotaging your gym workout or healthy diet. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the crunchy texture of this famous Italian cookie and wash it down with the drink that makes Starbucks so legendary. As a tip, regardless of whatever you choose to drink at Starbucks, think tall so you can keep your waistline small.
So the next time you dine out, don’t be surprised if prices are not the only numbers you see. Remember these tips for a waistline-friendly dining experience.
Fit for Life! is a bi-weekly fitness and health food column. Look for it every other Friday this Fall.
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