Behavior Change and Health News
Type of Restaurant Determines Tendency for Weight Gain
New research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine finds that where you eat when dining out has a greater effect on weight than previously thought. Those who live close to fast-food establishments had higher BMIs than those who had more full-service restaurants (such as Applebee’s, O’Charley’s) nearby. The research, which was published in the February issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, surveyed over 700,000 people. Dr. Virginia Chang, lead author of the study and professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, states that the findings reveal “eating out per se is not necessarily bad.” Rather, it is where a person decides to dine that can lead to larger waistlines. In Chang’s study, fast-food restaurants were classified as places where customers paid before eating, whereas full-service restaurants were those where customers paid after eating. Chang revealed, “People who live in areas with more full-service restaurants do tend to be thinner.” Meals from both types of restaurants were compared by the researchers, as well. Although meals from both restaurants had similar amounts of total fat, meals from full-service restaurants typically had lower amounts of saturated fat but higher levels of cholesterol and sodium. With more and more Americans eating out, it is vital that they be aware of the dangers of frequently dining out. For example, diners in restaurants do not have any control over what is put into the food, plus portions are usually larger than recommended.
If you want to learn more about healthy eating, choosing the right portion sizes, and substituting healthier foods for the not-so-healthy foods, sign up today for the Active Living Partners course Healthy Eating Every Day. And, starting March 1, you will receive the Healthy Eating Every Day book plus access to online tools for the new low price of $34.99. For more information, please contact program manager Bhibha Das at bhibhad@hkusa.com or 800-747-4457 ext 2455.
Sources:
Gardner, A. February 2008. Eating out doesn't guarantee weight gain. Health Day.
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