Really, How Healthy is your Salad?

Really, How Healthy is your Salad?

Most people are under the impression that just because they’re eating a salad that it’s healthy. That cannot be further from the truth. A TEASPOON of salad dressing can contain up to 15+ grams of Carbs and upwards of 100+ calories. How healthy does that sound? Especially when people love to pile up the dressing on their salads and claim they are eating healthy. I use to work at McDonald’s (lovely job) and would be amazed at all the salads we would sell, like WHY? These people thought, well it’s a salad, it has to be healthy! This article will explain why that’s false and the way to make your salad as healthy as can be.

DRESSINGS:

I recommend staying away from dressing completely; enjoy the flavor of the actual ingredients in your salad. But I understand this is not always possible. I will recommend using honey mustard dressing or any low-carb/no-carb options. Look at the nutritional facts on the back before purchasing a dressing or using it, make yourself aware of what you are eating. If you’re at a restaurant, ask for the low-carb options, don’t be afraid! Also, ask for the dressing on the side, so you can control of amount that you put in. They don’t care what you eat, but you should.

LETTUCE:

Let’s start with a good rule of thumb: The darker (green) it is, the healthier it is. I eat all my salads with spinach and nothing else lettuce wise. Spinach leaves have more minerals, vitamins and fibers compared to traditional lettuce. Especially Iceberg lettuce which is known for having little to ZERO nutritional value, how healthy is that? Incorporate spinach leaves into your salads and leave the lettuce where it is.

TOPPINGS:

I make my own salads at home, based on ingredients I enjoy. This is always the best option, so you know exactly what you are eating. My salad toppings will include: 3 bean salad (AWESOME!!), pasta, onions, kidney beans and black beans. I’ll also throw some almonds in there because they are a great healthy topping. Beans are filled with great protein, almonds with healthy fats, and some good carbs from the pasta/spinach leaves.  Also feel free to throw some fruits in there (apples, oranges, whatever you prefer). If you throw some cheese on there, go light, not more than a sprinkle or two. Cheese can be filled with carbs, especially if you chose to pile it on.

HOW TO ORDER A SALAD AT A RESTAURANT:

Don’t choose a salad that comes with a dressing already if this is your main course. This dressing will be piled on, which can turn a healthy salad, unhealthy, very quick.  It may be a good idea to check the restaurant website before hand and check out the nutritional information for their salads or ask in restaurants. They HAVE to provide you with the information if you ask, keep this in mind. Always get your dressing on the side, so you have the option of how much dressing you put on. Consider asking if you can have spinach leaves or a romaine mix instead of traditional iceberg lettuce. Don't trick yourself, you know what's good for you and what isn't. It’s YOUR meal, have it how you want it!

CONCLUSION:

Know what you are putting in your salad. Stay away from bacon bits, tortilla strips, things of that nature. READ the nutritional label and KNOW what’s going in there. Use low-carb salad dressings, healthy toppings (beans, nuts, etc.). Just because you are eating a salad does NOT mean it’s healthy. Use these tips and help make a HEALTHY salad, not just a salad! Salads are fun, because you can incorporate so many different ideas, don’t be afraid to get creative, just stay healthy! Try to incorporate a salad into your diet at least 3 times a week. I try to do it almost every day, whether it’s a large salad as a meal, or a smaller one before a meal. Reap the benefits from all those nutrients! Remember, just because it’s a salad doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Get creative and have a fun time making your salad! I like to consider salads a healthy pizza, because you can literally put whatever you want on it.

Everyone have a blessed day.

Just a reminder, my articles will be coming on Wednesday and Saturday now. You can count on me for them. I'm excited for Saturday's article and am working on it now. I hope you guys enjoyed this one!