Calories, Sugar, and Fat, Oh My!
Despite my proclivity for chocolate, maintaining a healthy lifestyle ranks high on the necessity scale. We only have one body. Respect is in order.
In this vein, today’s post experiments a bit. I’m recycling an entry from my deceased public health blog. The one that enjoyed zero-hit days. Given I created the piece and have since closed the site, it’s not plagiarism. But just to be safe, I asked myself permission. Not only did I say yes, I green-lighted modifications for comedic purposes.
The Cheesecake Factory
One of my family’s preferred restaurants is The Cheesecake Factory, or what I like to call “gluttony at its finest.” For those of you familiar with the restaurant, no further explanation is needed. For those who are not, imagine portion sizes that would make a dietitian weep.
Other restaurants harbor a slew of waistline assassins as well, but The Cheesecake Factory is my favorite. The sight of a burrito the size of a log or a salad bigger than my son’s head titillates in its gustatory possibilities.
That’s How Many Calories?
But according to the Calorie Lab, that log-sized Factory Burrito Grande has 1,839 calories and a heap-load of salt. That chicken Caesar salad the size of my son’s head weighs in at 1,510 calories. Or, if you prefer some old-fashioned chicken and biscuits, it will cost you 2,262 calories and 68 grams of fat. As for desert, how about a 1,549-calorie slice of carrot cake or a 929-calorie slice of white chocolate raspberry truffle cheesecake? Ooh, that one’s sheer heaven.
By the way, the recommended caloric intake for women is 1,800-2,200 calories per day, depending on activity level, and 2,000-2,400 calories per day for males.
Oopsey daisy.
In the restaurant’s defense, they do have a terrific SkinnyLicious menu, all entries under 590 calories. I love the black-bean veggie burger. Yummy yummy in my tummy.
My kind of naughty and nice. (Image credit: thecheesecakefactory.com)
What’s a Consumer to Do?
So does that mean if we eat at The Cheesecake Factory, or any number of other restaurants, we should only choose from the lite menu? Not necessarily, but we should use common sense. If you plan to dine out, balance the rest of your meals that day—and maybe even the next—accordingly. Sharing works, too. Then you can splurge on dessert, because…well…The Cheesecake Factory without dessert? Really?
I believe in moderation. Everything in moderation. Deprivation ultimately backfires. One deserves an occasional meal in an indulgent restaurant as long as it’s balanced with meals at home most days of the week and a conscious calorie acknowledgement.
But be careful. The formula of “calories in equals calories out” is not as simple as it seems. Individual choices do not contribute to health outcomes in a vacuum. The food industry, with its knowledge of just the right combination of fat, sugar, and salt to hook us in and keep us salivating for more, is also responsible. In fact, for an eye-opening discussion of how food manufacturers manipulate these key ingredients to stimulate our appetites and lead us to eat far more than we otherwise would, check out former FDA commissioner David Kessler’s book The End of Overeating. Taking Control of the Insatiable American Appetite. The research impresses.
And disturbs.
Hey, thanks for indulging me. I suspect your comments, or lack thereof, will determine whether I experiment with my blog content again. But it was fun while it lasted…
What about you? What’s your preferred restaurant indulgence? Do you compensate for the calorie overload by eating less the rest of the day? What’s your favorite waistline assassin?
For more information on dietary guidelines, see health.gov from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Also, for another eye-opening read, see Eat This, Not That: Avoid America’s ‘Scariest’ Restaurant Meals.
All images from Microsoft Clip Art unless otherwise noted.
151 Responses to “Calories, Sugar, and Fat, Oh My!”
That is crazy calories for a salad!!! I’ve never been to Cheesecake Factory either, not sure where one even is near me. I’m sure many people have no idea how many calories their food has – and how simple things like not getting mayo on a burger can save a lot of calories/fat.
I agree–most people have no idea of the calories awaiting them. I know many people think that the listing of calories on a menu won’t make any difference, and to some people it probably won’t. But I suspect for many it will. I know I would refrain from ordering a 1500 calorie salad, or at least make some modifications to it.
Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Calories…who’s counting? I’m more concerned with food quality, where did it come from, how was it produced…and utterly disturbed with the genetically modified experiments with our health. Don’t go out to eat much because of all this, but I have tried Rock Sugar their drinks are amazing! Same ownership as Cheesecake Factory but the portions are not as gluttonous.
I agree about the food quality. It’s gotten to the point where, although I enjoy a meal out, I often prefer to eat at home. Not only are my meals healthier, but I know what’s in them. I haven’t heard of Rock Sugar. I’ll have to look that chain up and see if there are any near me.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
[...] But don’t tell me you didn’t enjoy it.) And finally goes me, tossing chocolate and cookies and cheesecake your way. Along with a gym pass for the day to balance things [...]
Oh…never eaten at that cheesecake place. That good?
I never liked cheesecake before I ate there. But it’s not just cheesecake there. It’s cheesecake with layers of mousse and cake and chocolate pieces and whipped cream and you name it, it’s there!
Mmmmmm fooooddd. Love fooood. Best waistline assassin? There’s a Lebanese company that packages duck related foods. Fois gras, duck confit, and an AMAZING pre-made duck cassoulet in a jar that feeds two plus (code for “me” in 1.5 sittings). With a fresh baguette?! Divine.
“code for “me” in 1.5 sittings”–ha ha! You always make me laugh. And yes, I expect anything related to fois gras will carry a hefty calorie count. And a baguette? Oh, don’t even get me started.
I like you digging out of the old public health blog! Taking care of our bodies is of course very near and dear to my heart. I’m looking forward to hearing more! Maybe you’ll even inspire me to write a little more fitness-related stuff since that is, after all, the new career path I’ve chosen for myself!
Yes, you’ve got the hard part–you have to help people burn OFF all that extra cheesecake! And the amount of exercise it would take to burn off one slice of that decadence is exhausting to think about.
Thanks for coming by. Glad you liked it.
Yes. I’m a big fan of not putting it there in the first place. As my mom always says, “A moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips.”
I know. Sucks, doesn’t it?
Nuts are my favourite indulgence! And chips (so much so that I never buy them). You know, cheese and onion.. I like your public health blog, Carrie, it has zing!
Thanks! I enjoy a good nut, too. Especially when they are surrounded by M&Ms and big chocolate caramel balls like my favorite naughty trail mix.
But a handful of nuts a day is really good for you. Minus the other treats I just pointed out.
Hi, nice article. My absolute weakness are pancakes with banana and chocolate.
I restrain myself to about twice a month, because I could eat them all day every day.
Kind regards to you and your boys
I have never tried pancakes with banana and chocolate, but now I most certainly want to. Maybe with a little whipped cream on top, too.
Thanks for stopping by, Vladimir!
I haven’t tried the Cheesecake Factory, either, though I’ve had a couple of opportunities. When I go through a bout of eating out–like when I’m traveling–it haunts me afterward, even salads. Since I began controlling the amount of soy in my diet, I tend to detect the off-taste in fried and greasy foods, which has ruined me for a run to the fast-food place for fries or cheesy breadsticks. I enjoy the natural flavors of vegetables and fruits so much more now. I don’t ever want to go back to the old way of eating.
I hear you. Although I believe in moderation, I, too, avoid fried and greasy foods. I don’t crave them, so they’re not hard to stay away from. An occasional french fry, maybe, and I only eat grilled meat. It’s the desserts that get me.
I use the myfitnesspal app on my phone and log everything I eat. It keeps me on track and aware of how many calories, fats, carbs, etc I am taking in. It also allows me to track exercise and eat more when I exercise. So I usually swim two hours before my aunt’s bbq.
I have a Livestrong app, though I don’t use it as well as I could. They can be really helpful with tracking things though. A DQ blizzard suddenly isn’t as tempting when you see how many calories you’ve already consumed.
Well that’s a relief. I’m going on a cruise and in the brochure I read that there are no calories in their food So I’m safe. Whew!
Now that sounds like a cruise I’d like to take!
I feel the same way about Maggiano’s. Our family LOVES the food. But it is definitely a gluttony-fest. We go there about once a year, if that. So I don’t think our bodies will self-destruct. ; ) And we just go wild–stuffed mushrooms, pasta dishes, dessert… Seriously. You’d think we wouldn’t eat for days afterwards. But that just isn’t true.
Sometimes budgets and time constraints are a good thing for a long and healthy life. ; )
Ooh, that’s a great restaurant, too. We have one, but it’s a drive so we don’t often go there. Everyone needs their yearly pasta fill.
This was a really good post. You could resurrect more of those from your other blog. There are a lot of comments on it. Feel free to not answer as I am a day late. I feel the same about Cheesecake Factory. We don’t go there any longer, the portion sizes are ridiculous to the point that it’s just plain irritating. I once ordered some chicken pasta thing, thinking it might be a little healtier. After all it’s chicken… and pasta, right? Come to find out it’s one of the most caloric things on the menu! Enough for a grown man’s entire daily intake. Plus, the size of their menu is stupid. Way too many choices.
So Lynn, tell me what you really think.
But seriously, I agree–it is ridiculous, as are so many restaurant options. Not only are portion sizes huge, but the contents are full of high-fat cream and butter. Which is why it’s only an occasional indulgence.
Glad you enjoyed the post. I’ll have to see if there are any others from my old blog I can humor up. Hmmm, maybe the one on HPV vaccine for boys? Now that’s a laugh riot.
And remember, it’s never too late for another comment! Thanks for adding yours.
Being a total foodaholic, I sometimes wish the word calories had never been invented. Great to know you are such a stickler for eating right though.
BTW, I write a blog about health, food, & living. Since you wrote about healthy eating once too, maybe you’ll like it. Please do pay a visit! (linked to my name)
You write two blogs?! Don’t you have a book review site as well? Wow. Impressive.
Thanks for stopping by. I’ll have to check out your other blog when I get a chance.
When I need to do myself in, and I mean catatonia levels of consumption, grease and juice running down my arms and dripping off my elbows, not enough napkins in the dispenser, sheer “dear god, what was I thinking” eating, I’ll take a 40 minute drive to the only place that will do.
http://allamericanhamburger.us/
You’re welcome.
Ha ha–you would definitely get my husband and sons’ vote on that one. We don’t have one near us, but we have a Five Guys, and they think that’s sheer heaven. Sadly, their mean mother doesn’t let them eat there too much. At least at the Cheesecake Factory they can get sides of broccoli. At Five Guys, it’s just burgers and fries. Oh, and all of that grease you enjoy dripping down your arms.
I may have salivated a little, like one of Pavlov’s dogs. I might actually make dinner now. I won’t elaborate on the reasons for this, because that’s the subject of a later blog post, but it’s always good when people write about food. I need anything I can to tempt me nowadays.
Well, if temptation is what you need, then a trip to The Cheesecake Factory should be your next stop. Just be careful. You might walk out two sizes larger.
From the land of fish and chips and steamed puddings you might hear a faint but discernibly agonised bleating sound. Were there to be a British Cheesecake Factory I would not be able to walk past it – I wouldn’t even dare to enter the street it was on! I am one of those unhappy souls for whom just the mention of the word ‘calory’ will add another waistline inch. One glance at the chocolaty picture above was too much – I simply HAD to go out and buy this gateau, and now (on slice three) my keys are getting all sticky!
My sympathies go to the guy in the picture at the top who is clearly about to shoot himself in the head. Exactly, guy! It’s the only way out!
Ha ha–well, if even virtual calories go to your waistline, then you’d be in a heap of trouble at the Cheesecake Factory. And yes, its cheesecake is so rich, those keys would slip from your fingers, as there’s really no means of keeping all that cheese from escaping your pores. Not to mention the dallops of whipped cream.
But I suspect England has its own fair share of waistline assassins. In fact, I spent a couple days in London a while back, so I know they do.
Great post and it looks as if your time has come! Lots of people looking and commenting.
The one small thing I’d like to add is that fat, sugar and salt are not the only things that can add favour to a meal. I cook French style and that means lots of garlic, herbs, onions, slow cooking [for the flavour], salads with vinaigrette, and of course cream and sour cream when applicable. I also make veal schnitzel from scratch… ONCE EVERY COUPLE OF MONTHS! And none of us are above the BMI, not even me at post menopausal 59. Being healthy and eating delicious food do not have to be poles apart.
Such good points. In fact, I mentioned to an earlier commenter, that restaurants need to realize that butter and creams aren’t the only things that enhance flavor. Some olive oil, garlic, and seasonings can work wonders. Even the heavy creams aren’t necessary. I’ve made Fettucine Alfredo using skim milk and plain yogurt, and it tastes great, not to mention it contains a fraction of the calories.
Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. I appreciate it.
I haven’t tried substituting yoghurt for cream but I do like it so I’ll give it a try. I’m passionate about food and get so annoyed when manufacturers devalue it. Btw I really enjoyed your post. lol I forgot to say that.
Thanks!
OH yeah … Cheescake Factory in Vegas.
Those were the days. 
Have you heard of the Heart Attack Grill? Where diners ‘dine at their own risk’?
Good post, Carrie
I have heard of the Heart Attack Grill. I think that’s the place I read about where they have up to quadruple cheeseburgers. America at its finest, that is. Even “everything in moderation” has a limit. Good grief–can you imagine?
Ugh no I can’t.
Hey best of luck to you, Carrie! I’ll be watching for your book release
Thank you.
Great post, Carrie. Feel free to give yourself persmission to use material from your defunct health blog anytime. We experienced our first Cheesecake Factory experience last year in Boston (we don’t have anything really like it here). OMFG! The portion sizes are just stupid, but as a well planned and compensated for rare indulgence, I can see the merits and will be back. Best cheesecake I ever had
.
Actually, the US seems to have a different apporach to food and food portions than Australians. The portion sizes in the US are incredible, at least 1.5 – 2.0 times the size of ours. I’ve seen backyard pools smaller than the size of a large coke in the US! And you can’t seem to get plain anything. A ham sandwich – just a sandwich with ham and maybe a bit of green salad. Nope, everything seems to be filled with mayo. I know most US citizens feel let down by our food offerings here.
It really is ridiculous, isn’t it? The amount of mayo they put on a Subway sub is horrifying. When ever I go there I ask for just a “streak” of honey mustard, and yet they still put too much on. And don’t even get me started on beverage sizes. Good god, whose bladders can even withstand that?
I often wonder what foreigners think when they come to our country. I’m sure it’s very strange for them.
I have never eaten at the Cheesecake Factory. I wish I could say that it because I didn’t want to. Nope. They don’t exist around here.
I always struggle with menu options when we eat out. Even the under 600 calorie light meals have more calories that I want to eat in a single meal.
Thanks for the book references; I’m off to do some research (although I’m not sure I really want to know how the food industry is manipulating us to eat more crap…)
It’s an eye-opening read for sure. Lots of research and science facts, but I know you’ll have no trouble with that. And you’re right, sometimes even the light meals have too many calories. That being said, I am sad you have no access to a Cheesecake Factory, though I suspect British Columbia has its share of other delights.
Helpful and funny. In fact, when this was on your public health blog (you know, I can’t even say that without getting excited–it’s got all the whiz-bang thrill of hard science, coupled with the rollercoaster world of non-stop excitement that is public policy), it might have been the funniest thing ever written on public health, except perhaps for anti-AIDS/HIV advertisements from the 80s (to clarify–the disease wasn’t funny, the ads were).
I’ve never eaten at the Cheesecake Factory either. I’m not sure we have one within 100 miles. I’ll live, though.
Since I keep myself on a 12K calorie Michael Phelps diet, your advice really doesn’t apply to me. But for non Olympic-level athletes, I think this is good advice. If we’re not making our own food (and I don’t mean heating it up), then we should be aware of what’s in it. I’m not saying not to eat it–some people can get away with eating whatever they want, and others of us (myself definitely included) have to be a little more careful. But I’m glad the choice is there.
Yeah, my public health blog was a riot act, that’s for sure. I was very respectable and scientific on it, with numerous sources to back me up. In other words–boring. Just as you speculated a public health blog would be. There weren’t many posts I coud spice up and bring over here, but I thought this one was worth a shot. I did write one on HPV vaccine for boys. Do you think I can make that funny?
Good to hear you have the body of an olympian, and can therefore consume 12,000 calories a day. I always figured such was the case, though hopefully you forego the Michael Phelps speedos. In fact, if you actually had a Cheesecake Factory in your little Californian paradise, you could order several things off the menu and still be okay.
I did write one on HPV vaccine for boys. Do you think I can make that funny?
I absolutely do.
I know you could make it funny. The question is, should I? Somehow, I don’t think I could get away with it as well as PT. Though I could show some fun warty images.
I meant YOU could make it funny.
You ask: “Should I?”
I sense a teaching moment here. I’m gonna answer your question with a question of my own, but first think for a few moments on some of the things I’ve published on PT in the time you’ve been reading it.
Here’s my question: Do you really suppose that mine would be the most helpful opinion you could solicit regarding what does or does not cross that ever-so-delicate line of blogosphere propriety?
But yeah, I totally think you could get away with it. You’ve been Freshly Pressed–you could show some soft-core warty dinguses and folks would still get the Very Special Message vibe.
Well if warty penises don’t entice another Freshly Pressed round, I don’t know what will…
I like your motto, “everything in moderation.” (except for blog comments, right?)
Absolutely. As far as blog comments go, over-indulgence is the goal. That’s why I put in so many of my own to pad them.
My pad or yours? nyuk nyuk nyuk . . .
Bazinga!
I’d wager that 82 comments and counting is a sign of success. I LOVE stopping by McDonald’s for a large order of fries, fountain coke, and cheeseburger, but only when my birthday falls on a Sunday during a leap year. =)
We rarely eat at McDonalds unless it’s the only option on a turnpike or in an airport. Last week, my 12 year old begged me for a McDonalds. I finally relented. He had 10 nuggets, medium fries, and a vanilla shake. Six hours later in bed he threw up. He was fine after, so I knew he didn’t have a virus. The next day he decided he’d had his fill of McDonalds for awhile. My point is, your every 4 year visit seems like a wise move.
As for the number of comments–look closely; most of them are mine.
Now if I could only banish the cool ranch doritos from my diet I’d be in good shape….
I’m glad you said that deprivation backfires. I believe I should eat everything — in moderation — as I write I’m eating a big fat cookie! And I’m known for eating very well. I believe like you, that we need to take care of our bodies by eating right and exercising regularly. People are surprised when I buy crap stuff like pop tarts — love ‘em — or when I go to mcdonalds. I go to mcdonalds a couple of times a year — I have to.
Thanks for mentioning the lighter choices. For years I was severe with my eating habits, using cigarettes to help me along — I was a vain young person who believed that you could never be too skinny. In maturity I’m so relaxed, it’s great. I appreciated reading your take on it.
Thanks, Sandee. Deprivation would just make me crazy. I get my fruits and veggies. I eat grilled meat. I get plenty of dairy. But you can bet I want my Snickers Blizzard on occasion or my chocolate. Life is just too short, otherwise. I love Michelle Obama’s take on nutrition and what she’s done with her family. Of course, I have an interest in pediatric obesity, so she stole my heart right away when she announced that was her platform. But even she admits to everything in moderation. And she’s got the biceps to prove it.
I liked this post. I’m going to quickly share my own weight gain and loss story here. In April of 2010, I quit smoking, a nasty habit of 30 years. Although I really tried not to overeat (and I don’t believe that I did), I gained almost 20 pounds. In May 2011, I was diagnosed with blood clots in both of my lungs and was chair ridden for a month. Gained another 25 pounds or so. By last summer, I tipped the scales at 213 pounds. Wow. Ok, so I am almost 6 feet tall but this was an all time record for me. I not only hated the way I looked, but I had trouble doing anything physical. Bending to tie my shoes was work and I had to straighten up and take a break a few times. I outgrew all of my clothes. I wore nothing but yoga pants and had to keep buying bigger tops as well. I. Was. Miserable.
I sent away for a diet/exercise program called the Pink Method at the beginning of Jan 2012. With a combination of eating right and exercising, I am down to 173 pounds, only 13 pounds away from my goal of 160. My basic diet consists of fruit, vegetable, green tea (black, no sugar) and water. I am now used to eating like this and enjoy it, for the most part. I DO however, cheat almost daily. As a former junk food addict, I knew that if I took away ALL of my favorite foods, my new way of eating would not last. My meals are all low in calorie and healthy, but I have a weakness for cookies, doritos (zesty cheese) and chocolate. I am able to eat these things (in moderation of course) on a daily basis and maintain the same weight.
My problem now is, it’s been a few months since I’ve given up on the exercise because since I’ve started working full time again, I’m just too tired and don’t have all the extra time I had before. I’ve reached a plateau on the weight. I can’t do anything cardio because I become too short of breath (something we still haven’t figured out the reason for) so I’m at a place where I need to either start exercising again or be satisfied with my weight loss so far.
What do I miss the most from my old way of eating? Poutines. French fries covered in rich gravy and curd cheese. Cake too.
Wendy, thanks so much for sharing your story. I love hearing about how people have lost weight, because I’ve seen from others how much work it takes. It’s really a lifestyle change as you demonstrate. It’s not just about dieting for awhile and then you’re done. You seem to have gone about it very sensibly. I think if people give up all of life’s delights, it can be very difficult to stick with. That being said, some things are probably always best avoided like fried foods (Poutines, huh?) and really greasy items.
I’m sure it’s frustrating to be limited with your exercise now that you’re working. Hopefully you can fit it some walking. And I heard about that Pink method on Dr. Phil (yes, I watch him).
That’s where I heard about it. I bought it as a christmas present for myself. It really does work and eventually you can tailor it to suit your needs and still end up with losing weight and getting healthier.
The bald guy knows what he’s talking about.
I’m a firm believer in eating a daily balanced diet that contains foods from all four basic food groups: sugar, salt, fat, and booze.
I love those giant-portion restaurants. The wonderful thing about getting a portion larger than my own body mass is that I *know* I can’t eat it all… so I don’t even try. I usually get three or four meals out of the take-home leftovers. Heck of a deal. My problem is with all the other restaurants that give you only about 50% too much. Then I end up eating it all. Plus dessert.
You might want to challenge the food pyramid with your four basic staples. You’d probably have a lot of supporters.
If you can control yourself, then the big portions are indeed nice because you have dinner the next day. But unfortunately, control isn’t in big supply around some of these restaurants.
Yes, it’s that whole “splendour of quantity” thing – it’s easy to get carried away. I actually eat a very healthy diet most of the time, but portion sizes do tend to sneak up on me. As a general rule, I eat from the “real” food pyramid six days a week, and Fridays are my no-holds-barred sugar/salt/fat/booze days. I work out a lot, so I can usually get away with a few indiscretions.
If the pounds start to creep back on, I get a bit more exercise and cut the portion sizes… but I never give up my Friday foodfests. And I always allow myself one dessert per day. Deprivation won’t make me live longer; it’ll just feel that way.
I think you’ve got it just right. I, too, exercise every day. Not only does it burn calories while you’re doing it, but you burn more throughout the day afterwards. That way, I can eat more. And stay sane. Well, I guess that last part’s debatable.
Did The Cheesecake Factory once with a group of girlfriends years ago. Portions kind of scared me too. Food quality: Yum. So many cheesecake choices, I was sad at opting only for one. Sigh.
Favorite restaurant indulgence: Friendly’s Reese’s Pieces Sunday or their current Hunka Chunka PB Lava Cake 12-inch diameter-plate of awesomeness. On the rare occasion that I go, I make sure to take someone who shares the PB-n-ice-cream love.
Fun post, Carrie. Experiment anytime you like!
Thanks!
I had to laugh when you mentioned the Friendly’s desserts, because my Twitter pics still include that image you posted of that yummy peanut butter dessert (I had responded to your tweet, so I guess it stuck the image on my profile page). I keep meaning to go there, because I want to try that dessert. But somehow, the Cheesecake Factory keeps beckoning us back.
This comment-box thingy can make me a little nuts, lol. I don’t have tolerance for waiting to get into our area same-name venue. Those sobering calorie counts make it easier to stay away too.
Good thing Friendly’s is a few towns over. Though I may be recruiting my son soon…
I’ve heard of the Cheesecake Factory but never been. I am one of the strange folks that will pass up sugar for salt…(I’m a salt fiend) most people want dessert, I’m like did you say chips n dip? I have to really watch the sodium intake. I cook most of the meals and eat out sparingly…I love vegetables. (my fav indulgence would be mexican food!)
I love vegetables, too. And they don’t have to be smothered in cheese or cream to taste good. A little olive oil, some garlic and seasonings, and roasted veggies are delicious. It drives me crazy when I order sides of broccoli for my kids in a restaurant, and they come seeped in butter (the veggies, not the kids).
I haven’t had chips and dip for so long. Ooh, now you got me craving…
Yes, yes, yes Carrie…we should all use common sense when it comes to choosing the food that slips between our lips.
However….last time I looked…common sense had not been added to any of the Recommended and Approved Pyramid and/or Food Groups…not mine anyway.
Yes, if only they could serve a dallop of common sense along with that cheesecake smothered in whip cream! It’s funny how quickly that common sense can be overshadowed by our taste buds’ pleasure.
It’s probably good that I’ve never been to the Cheesecake Factory.
My husband and I purposely don’t eat out very often simply because it is hard to eat healthy. And we will bring home half for the next day. And I definitely try to eat extra healthy meals around those outings.
Keeping up the daily exercise is a must, too. I need to up the intensity of my morning workouts because I can see a few pounds have managed to come back on by missing my evening walks during our extreme heat.
Both parents developed Type 2 diabetes, and I don’t want to follow suit. So I do try to be moderate in my fat and calorie intakes.
I believe strongly that daily exercise, no matter what one is able to do, helps the aging process tremendously. In fact, when centenarians are asked their secrets, most all of them respond similarly–”I walk every day.” If a hundred-year-old woman can do it, then surely the rest of us can.
It’s weird to become the old married couple that share their meals, but my husband and I sometimes do just that. Otherwise, it’s too easy to overindulge. And believe me, a half piece of The Cheesecake Factory’s cheesecake is enough for even the biggest appetite. Very rich. But very yummy.
Hehehee I actually have had the pleasure of eating at The Cheesecake Factory in Florida a year ago, during one of the many work visits to US. I was starving when we went in and ordered a chicken dish. Think it was Cashew Chicken, but don’t take my word for it…well, let’s just say I’m probably still digesting bits of it to this day. I had to stop half way through – they don’t mess around with portion sizes over there!
You had me laughing out loud with that comment. You’re not kidding–Americans love their big portions. And yes, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re still burping cashews. Then again, if that’s the case, I feel sorry for your girlfriend.
Hehehee indeed, we’ll just have to hope she’s a huge fan of cashews! I’m happy my digestive pains are a source of great entertainment for you
Well, the fact that they are shouldn’t surprise you.
I remember my first visit to America, where I discovered everything (and everyone) was bigger. My observation hasn’t changed one bit in almost 20 years. Since restaurants have added the amount of calories in each dish, it’s taking a lot of fun out of dining out. I don’t mind looking at the lighter side menus but when I see I still pay $10 for a plate but get a 1/3 of the calories, I opt for the larger portion and take what I don’t eat home. But yes, too much food will kill us all. I hear life expentancy is going to go down for the first time in decades now that Americans are getting fatter and fatter. And let’s not even talk about healthcare costs to take care of this obesity problem!
One of my interests areas is pediatric obesity, and to think that today’s generation of children may be the first generation to live shorter lives than their parents is really troubling. Yes, individuals need to make better choices, but as I said in my post, other industries must play their part, particularly the food industry.
The times I’ve been in Europe, including many years ago when I was an Au Pair in Paris, people assume I’m Canadian. One, because I can speak French (though not well anymore–in fact, pretty horribly now), but mostly because I’m not overweight. Talk about a statement on our country!
Haha, you may soon have to move to Canada to find healthy food! I can tell you it was quite a shock to see so many obese people the first year I visited the US (in 1984). I had never seen such sight, especially when nobody is fat in American movies. I honestly had never seen such big people in my life before (I was a teenager then, but still) and to see them eat so much fast food and then blame genetics, I was shocked. I guess I had the outside perspective. People are getting fatter in Europe, especially in the UK, and I hope it takes a huge (no pun intended) wake up call for people to stop killing themselves with food.
Agreed. And when we were in Europe not too long ago, I was surprised by how many more overweight people there were than when I was there last. Particularly in England. And other countries are suffering as well. It’s not just the US. Is really a global problem now, though the US carries the lead.
Yes! Cheesecake Factory is the ultimate BEST (besides my sushi restaurant). 2 years ago when I was doing a biggest loser contest with some other women, we each had to write our favorite restaurant and get the healthy choice options and the calories for a few meals there. I wrote Cheesecake and they wrote back that if I needed to ask how many calories were in their meals, then I probably shouldn’t eat there. So I am in awe that you got their secrets. Maybe they don’t guard them so closely now. I usually eat super skimpy for breakfast and lunch on a Cheesecake Factory date night. And I usually divide my meal before I start eating, so I take home half. That way I get yumminess the next day too. And yes, it is a sin to go there and not order a piece of cheesecake. My husband and I usually split, and it’s still so rich that I’m rolling out of there. But I like to roll.
Sharing one of their cheesecakes is plenty. They are very rich as you point out. But oh, so yummy!
I think that’s pretty horrible for a restaurant to say that if you need to ask how many calories are in their dishes, then you shouldn’t eat there. It does appear that they’ve come around, because their SkinnyLicious menu is really good. People have a right to know what they’re putting into their bodies.
Agreed. the SkinnyLicious menu wasn’t around when I wrote them. I haven’t tried it, because I have a few dishes I can’t NOT order. They seriously hold me spellbound and I drool all over my menu thinking of them. Steak Diane. I have to go get a napkin. The drool reflex just kicked in thinking about it.
That’s a pretty picture you’ve just painted.
For the last year I have radically changed my eating habits . I have a lot more energy, lowered my cholesterol by half, and am slowly, oh so slowly , loosing weight. So, I can testify that it is worth making some better choices.
You are so right about moderation-if I want chocolate I have a little.
If I try to fight the craving I end up eating more than I should.
Cut your cholesterol in half? Wow–that is really impressive. Good for you. I am always in admiration of people who make the changes and witness the outcomes. It’s not easy to do. If it was, everyone would be doing it.
And I’m with you. If I don’t give into a craving now and then, it will only become demon-sized in the future.
It took me along time to admit that the changes were needed.
I still have days that are better than others-but I keep plugging away!
Well, take pride in your accomplishments. As the Canadians say, “Good on you!”
I have such a love/hate relationship with food that I’m very hesitant to open my yap on the subject. I do love the Hippocrates quote though, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” A brief comment from me? What is this world coming to?
A brief comment allows you more time to enjoy a piece of cheesecake.
Or Greek yogurt with fresh red cherries, walnut pieces and a dusting of unsweetened chocolate powder. Probiotics, uric acid neutralizer, good fats and flavonoids?
Sounds wonderful. In fact, I just polished off a lunch of yogurt and berries, so my anti-oxidant supply has been replenished. No chocolate powder though. Sigh.
Shockingly, I’ve never been to Cheesecake factory. Every time my friends go something comes up and I just can’t go. Sad considering my love for cheesecake! Portion control is what kills Americans.
If anyone grew up in my household they would definitely have a problem with this, not because they are greedy but because I literally got in trouble if I didn’t finish every last bite on my plate. It was a pet peeve of my father’s, something about when he was over seas in the military he witnessed people starving and having to kill their own dogs just to survive. So from a very young age it was engraved in my mind to eat everything on the plate. Obviously I learned quickly not to order too much and it was easy to control portion size at self serve buffets but occasionally I found myself ordering off a menu and getting a little more than I asked for.
To this day I still have trouble leaving food on my plate, but I’m learning slowly to control how much I eat….thank goodness my dad isn’t around the dinner table anymore!
That was true of many parents in the past; I suppose based on the little they grew up with. Today, it’s encouraged to offer a healthy plate to your child and let them regulate themselves, though, of course, sometimes a little incentive is involved (for that picky eater).
You really must get to a Cheesecake Factory. You can eat half and take the rest home. Then you have a meal the next day, too. And trust me, if you like cheesecake, you will think you died and made it into heaven.
The only time I ever went to the Cheesecake Factory, a middle aged man was leaving his wife at the table next to us, so regrettably, I remember that rather than the food. But my guilty pleasure (very, very, very guilty) are McDonalds chicken McNuggets. I only eat them every couple years now bc when I was in college I Te them constantly. I’m paying my penance.
I can do without the McNuggets, but I will say, McDonalds does make a tasty fry.
That’s sad about your Cheesecake Factory experience being tainted by a break-up. You’ll definitely need to go back. Maybe this time you’ll see a proposal. (How tacky would that be? Proposing to someone at the Cheesecake Factory, amid calories, sugar, and fat…)
MMMM Cheese cake factory. I will have to add that to my bucket list. :+) Yum.
I say feel free to Ver from your tradtional blog. I say life is a corniacopia of Fun and why not include your Blog in that fun list? I occasionally think about adding posts of healthy recipes. Not sure if I will do that or not. I know my BP has been high because I’ve been eatting out alot these days, and the only answer is to cook at home more. Having company recently our healthy eatting habits have became derailed.
Summer can be hard on diets, what with all the visitors and travel. But being aware of it is the first step in the battle, I think. (I probably just mixed a metaphor, but I know you’ll forgive me.)
I’d love to see healthy recipes on your blog. That would be fun!
Please feel free to mix your metaphors. :+)
I may have to give that some more thought the healthy recipe idea. Hmmm Until then I think I’ll google Cheesecake Factory to see if they have one in our area.
It’s worth a trip!
I woke up this morning thinking two words Cheesecake factory. Funny thing to think about when just opening your eyes. :+)
Oh, yikes. I may have created a monster. Quick, go get yourself some healthy berries and yogurt instead.
;+) Funny…… I will try and balance it out like you said look for “healthy berries and yogurt.” I think it’s tough because cheesecake use to be my favrote dessert choice for years.! I’m not surprised it has infultrated my sleep time.
I was never a fan of cheesecake. Until I visited the Cheesecake Factory. Because each piece is so much more than cheesecake. There’s sometimes mousse, cake, chocolate bits, snickers, peanut butter cups–you name it, it’s there. Oops. I don’t think I helped steer you away from the image, did I?
I was reading the list slowly……NO That did not help! It did bring tears to my eyes laighing though! :+)
Well, laughing should shed a few calories, so there’s that.
Laughing is always a good thing! I do have fresh berries outside in the yard red ripe strawberries and rasberries that are just turning red. It is also cherry season here. I must pull myself together and forage for healthy foods. :+)
Excellent post. Yes, the Cheesecake Factory is overindulgence at its finest…and occasionally worth it! I am a sucker for a great burger, myself. And if I don’t make up for it that morning, I try to be a little better the next day. But I do love good food, so sometimes that part is challenge. Thanks for a great reminder!
Sorry, I just saw your comment now. It ended up in my spam folder but has since been rescued.
I don’t eat red meat, but I love a good veggie burger. I know that sounds a bit like an oxymoron, and my kids think I’m crazy, but there’s some really good ones out there (like at the Cheesecake Factory) that when loaded with onions, tomatoes, and pickles can be really tasty. And then I feel so good about about myself for eating a veggie burger, that I can splurge on dessert.
Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate it.
The first few times when I visited this area I used to indulge in the big portions. When I knew I was moving over here, I had to take a realistic approach and cut all that out. Or at least the majority of it. I like my gym and exercise, I like keeping a decent (almost) athletic size and too many calories in does not equal the same amount out again.
We occasionally go to the cheesecake factory so I know what you mean. We also have some other places that are even worse. Once place does sandwiches so thick, they contain more width of meat than the packet you get down the supermarket. Why I ask? I cannot even fit it in my mouth to bite it. I have to pull it apart to eat it. The meatloaf is larger than a house brick. I don’t think they have a lite menu.
It really is ridiculous when you see some of these portion sizes. Many people like you and I realize the nonsense to this, and how much work is required to shed those extra calories. But sadly, many people don’t realize what they’re putting into their bodies, and, when food manufactures exploit our weakness for fat, sugar, and salt, recipes for disaster are created (no pun intended–well, okay, maybe a little intended).
Then again, it doesn’t take too much common sense to realize a sandwich wider than your mouth or a burrito the size of a log is probably not good for you.
I guess I just argued with myself, didn’t I?
Yes you did. – My wife and I are always saying as regards people putting on weight, that it is not that difficult to understand. If you eat too much and don’t burn it off via exercise, then you get big. It is not like you cannot look this stuff up these days.
I agree. Our own individual choices are the most important determinants of our health outcomes. But I also understand how challenging it can be for people to lose weight. I’ve seen some struggle with it for years, and as such, I’m not one to let the food industry off the hook too easily. They play a role, too.
Okay, my healthcare roots are showing. I must now dial it back down. Time for more offal, I suppose…
Thanks for your comments and insights. I always enjoy hearing your thoughts.
Also, I forgot to say that I really enjoyed this post, Carrie. I’d be interested in knowing more about your work in healthcare since that’s my field too.
Thanks. I appreciate that. I may drop more bits and pieces along the way, but I’m still trying to promote myself as a writer, not a health care provider who writes, so I haven’t delved too deeply into it. Of course, my author biographies will have more details.
Hmmph. Tease.
Don’t I wish! But alas, it’s nothing a Google search can’t reveal.
Lordy, do I love me some Cheesecake Factory. It’s a good thing that the nearest one to me is far enough away that we never really go. I don’t know that I could order from their “lite” menu, though—I’d feel horrifically cheated. I’d rather just order what I want, with the provision that I eat nothing but lettuce for 3 days before and after.
Well, if you’re good with the lettuce thing for 3 days before and after, then you’re set.
But actually, I avoided the lite menu at first, and then I tried a few things from it. Really good! But I still usually indulge from the other menu, and like you, compensate for it later.
I was good today lots of fruit with yogurt for lunch … yummy
Ha ha–that’s exactly what I have planned for lunch today! Great minds.
I love The Cheesecake Factory. We had a weekend of eating bad but delicious food and I’m too scared to even attempt a calorie count. I enjoy information like this though. I will spend the week trying to work off the weekend indulgence! Moderation, moderation…easy to say, hard to practice.
It really stinks when you realize how much exercise it takes to work off the smallest of indulgences, doesn’t it? But where would life be without those pleasures. At least that’s how I justify it.
Diabetes runs in my family, and I am borderline. Horrifying because I’m supposed to watch my carb intake. The problem I have is that I am a woman on the go with kids and errands and multiple jobs, yada yada. It is easier to throw a granola bar in my purse as I’m zooming out the door, than to try to spend 15 minutes in the morning, cooking eggs. It’s a matter of re-training myself. I’m sure I’ll figure it out, eventually.
Amusing aspect to my new low-carb diet is that I am supposed to increase my intake of salt! I’d been skimping on it for fear of all those terrible things you hear about salt, but obviously I’d been skimping too much.
I agree with moderation with everything. Diets don’t work because they are short-term. And trying to totally cut out one “bad boy” from your diet doesn’t necessarily bode well in the long run.
How right you are–much easier to grab something quick. Could my family make better food choices? Absolutely. But like you, I don’t have time (or desire) to cook them a special breakfast. One cooked meal of the day is enough for me. But I feel as long as I’m plying them with fruits and veggies in addition to the granola bar (or two), I’m at least partially winning the battle.
It’s tough when your own requirments (like lower carbs and more salt in your case) are not those of the rest of the family. And it seems we mothers often take the back seat.
Thanks for the comment!
I like this. But at my age I don’t have to worry about my waistline. My wife and I are both cuddly!
Contented cuddlers. That’s nice.
I’ve never made it to the Cheesecake Factory but it sounds sinfully delicious. If I consumed that many calories it would take me a month to drop the weight I would automatically gain from them. I have to severely restrict my eating to lose weight, i.e. a bowl of blueberries for breakfast, lean cuisine for lunch, and a platter of green beans for dinner. It’s not fun but it works for me.
If it works, no sense messing with the balance. If only more people were as conscientious, we’d have a much healthier nation. But it’s nice to see restaurants upping the game with their lite menus. We should be able to go out to eat and not use up an entire day’s (or two!) worth of calories. Food made without butter and heavy creams can still be tasty. More restaurants need to get on board with this.
Okay, I’ll get off my soapbox now.
We’re obviously wired to love the stuff that’s the worst for us – something I’ll never understand, but I do look for the healthier choices when I go out to eat OR I force myself to only eat part of the huge portion they usually provide.
That book I mentioned is really an eye-opener. Research is out there that shows how fat, sugar, and salt can actually be addictive–dopamine release and so on–which makes it difficult for our minds to shut off. Which, for anyone who’s struggled with stopping after just a few chips or a few bites of ice cream certainly knows.
I’ve been, reluctantly, trying to eat more sensibly. I have lost 7 pounds in the last few weeks. I didn’t feel very strong last week, but plan to run to the grocer this morning to restock on fresh veggies and fruits and whatever interesting lettuce I can use for more salads for lunch. Wish me luck.
When we go to the Cheesecake Factory…one of my favorite places btw…I always get the Chinese Chicken Salad. I MUST have it at least once a year. I dream about it! I really don’t care too much about the cheesecake. I don’t crave sweets like some do. Salt is my nemesis. But, if I do want a bite or two of a cheesecake, it would be the lemon raspberry, or I think they have a key lime. Both are a little more refreshing.
Confession: I am writing a book with recipes as part of the stories. One of the chapters requires a recipe for a prize winning cookie. I polled my FB friends and got around a dozen cookie recipes. Ergo, I’ve been making cookies…a lot. Luckily, I have a husband and son who eat the majority of them, but hey, I have to try at least one each time. I finally found the best cookie I’ve ever made. It will now be in the book AND my one go-to cookie. They are so good I could actually sit down with a plate of them and a big glass of milk and easily eat 4 or 5. They’re sitting in my kitchen right now, screaming my name. They’re evil like that. I am proud to tell you that I glared at them the entire time I ate my banana. So there!
Oh, my, I can’t wait to try those cookies! So the recipe will be in the book? That’s pretty cool.
Good for you on the seven pounds. I, too, like to keep the fridge stocked with fresh fruits and vegies. It takes a fair amount of prep time to wash everything and cut it if need be (like honeydew), but it’s worth it, because then it’s easily accessible. As is the dark chocolate I keep stashed in the back of the fridge.
Carrie,
What you’re telling me is stay away from KFC’s Double Down Chicken sandwich?
Le Clown
Yes, probably not the best choice. Besides, when splurging, isn’t it more appealing to splurge on something that’s actually real food?
I was commenting on your blog while you commented on mine. Cool. (It takes very little to amuse me.)
Carrie,
We’re just synced this way. As for the KFC burger, I don’t even think it made it on this side of the borders… I have an aversion for these fast food chains anyway, except Harvey’s, alas.
Le Clown
I had to Google Harvey’s. Haven’t heard of it. But it looks naughty and nice.
Everything in moderation. I agree with this because you’re right, deprivation really does backfire. I use an app called my fitness pal in an effort to eat 1400 calories a day. I am also using it as a way to keep track of sodium. Once the knowledge of this stuff is there, it’s hard to enjoy going out to eat. If you know of some other good places with low calorie menus, do share!
I use the Livestrong phone app to keep track of things. As you point out, it makes going overboard less desirable when you actually see what’s in the stuff you’re eating.
The Cheesecake Factory’s SkinnyLicious menu is the best I’ve found. It’s pretty comprehensive and the selections offer plenty of taste and plenty of food. Gee, I should get some sort of reimbursement for the restaurant for this promotion. A free cheesecake, perhaps?
Yes! nom nom nom
You’re not going to believe this but I’ve never been to the Cheesecake Factory but I’ve heard how the portions are huge and the salt is over the top. P.F. Changs is another one of those chain restaurants where if you eat one meal, you’re good to go (as far as salt and fat) for about a week. I agree with you about everything in moderation, but I do love me some chocolate — dark chocolate. And Italian food. And Thai. Now I’m hungry.
If it matters, I liked this post, Carrie. I’m going to check out the book you mentioned so thanks!
Never been to the Cheesecake Factory? Oh, my dear, it’s time you go. I believe they even have a dark chocolate cheesecake.
Then again, we’ve never been to P.F. Changs, though my husband always wants to try it. Not the kids first choice though. I’m grateful we live in an area with so many options.
Glad you enjoyed the post. Thanks for reading it and commenting. That book has a lot of research, but the take-home message is sobering.