154/365 Fast Food: New Look, Same Stuff

Friends and Fitness Enthusiasts,

Recently, my parents and I were driving late and needed to take a pit stop. We went into a McDonald's and I was bewildered. I kept asking myself, "Where am I? This looks different." If you are like me and have not been into a McDonald's in awhile (high five), you will be surprised at their change in design aesthetic and presentation overall.

McDonald's has taken quite a beating in the last decade from concerned consumers and foodies alike. From the film documentary Super Size Me to books like Fast Food Nation, McDonald's has had to revamp their look in order to stay competitive; they have. Walking in, you don't really feel like you're at a fast food restaurant or at least the one that you are used to. It's charming actually and welcoming.

However, you cannot let the neat exterior fool you. The food at McDonald's is still the same. Their nutrition facts were easy to find and look pretty much the same as they did years ago. Still, kudos for transparency. Remember that a Snack Wrap is at least 260 calories with grilled chicken and at least 330 when crispy. The drinks of McCafe are comparable to those of Starbucks, Saxby's, etc. Avoid any Triple Thick Shake at all cost. Also, when you look at the nutrition facts, pay attention to the calories from fat. Only 30% of your calories should come from fat. Think about it.

I don't mean to only pick on McDonald's. I have a problem with all fast food. In a technological world, we demand everything quickly. In this economy, we want things cheap. When food is fast is cheap, we don't see the forest behind the trees. How is food this cheap? Where does it come from? By not paying a lot for this now, will I pay a lot for it later? The answers are ugly and unequivocally true. Watch Food Inc. and you'll see what I mean.

In health,

Lauren