June 22nd 2024.
Many people enjoy indulging in takeaways on the weekends, whether it's to cure a hangover or accompany a Netflix marathon. However, a recent study has raised concerns about the calorie content of these meals, with some exceeding the recommended daily limit.
According to the NHS Eatwell Guide, women should consume around 2,000 calories a day and men around 2,500. The UK Government's One You campaign also advises adults to aim for 400 calories at breakfast and 600 for both lunch and dinner, leaving room for snacks. Unfortunately, the study found that six out of 10 takeaway meals surpass the recommended 600-calorie limit for lunch and dinner, which could be contributing to the country's obesity crisis.
The study, conducted by social innovation agency Nesta, revealed that one in three meals from fast food outlets contain at least 1,300 calories, which is double the recommended amount. Pizzas were found to have the highest calorie content, with some containing almost all of the recommended daily allowance.
The statistics also show that approximately 60% of the UK population purchase meals from takeaways at least once a week, with 7 million using them daily. While these numbers may not be surprising, they highlight the prevalence of takeaways in our diets and the potential impact on our health.
The introduction of calorie labels on menus in 2022 was met with criticism, as some argued that it could trigger people with eating disorders and create unhealthy relationships with food and calories. James Davis, a psychologist, personal trainer, and sports nutritionist, expressed concerns that calorie labelling could lead to individuals feeling guilty or anxious about their food choices.
For those who struggle with eating disorders or have negative body image issues, navigating calorie counts and food choices can be incredibly challenging. So how can one cope with this, especially when faced with calorie information on menus?
James advises not to get too hung up on the numbers on the menu. He believes that life should be enjoyed and balanced, and calorie counting should not become an obsession. However, for those who want to take calorie counts into account, it's important to understand how it fits into their daily nutritional needs.
It's also essential to remember that calories aren't the only factor to consider when making food choices. The quality and nutritional value of the food are also crucial. For example, 500 calories of raw organic spinach will be utilized very differently by the body compared to 500 calories of jelly babies.
If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating, it's important to seek help. Reach out to a GP or contact organizations such as Beat, Mind, or Overeaters Anonymous for support.
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