Many customers appreciate Costco because of its large savings on bulk goods and well-known food court, which attracts returning business. Who would object to the classic $1.50 hot dog and Coke combo? Some things, meantime, could be tasty and appealing, but they might also be nutrient-poor.
We asked Tami Best, a functional and integrative registered dietitian with Top Nutrition Coaching, to guide you in making healthier decisions. She lists five of the worst choices at the Costco food court and offers ideas for better ones.
1. Watch Sugary Drinks
Regarding beverages, many individuals believe smoothies to be a good option. The fruit smoothies Costco sells, though, could surprise you. Although they seem to be a reasonable choice, they have shockingly high sugar content.
About 240 calories and 50 grams of sugar almost double the American Heart Association’s (AHA) daily sugar intake of 36 grams for males and 25 grams for women make up one smoothie.
Still, that is hardly the worst offender. With 100 grams of sugar per serving almost double the calories in the smoothie Tami Best advises avoiding Costco’s fruit punch. These sweet beverages can cause metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. If you wish to maintain a better lifestyle, then it is advisable to completely avoid these drinks.
2. The Cheeseburger Combo: A Calorie Bomb
Popular at the Costco food court, the cheeseburger combo is not one you should grab lightly. Tami Best notes that this lunch has more than 1,700 calories, which some individuals might find to be their daily calorie count. Besides the calories, the mix boasts around 2,000 milligrams of salt and 21 grams of saturated fat.
The AHA advises against consuming more than 2,300 milligrams of salt and limits saturated fat on a 2,000-calorie diet to 13 grams daily. Eating this meal once sitting might greatly raise your chance of cardiovascular problems. You should pick something alternative if you’re trying for a dinner that won’t compromise your heart health.
3. Pizza: Delicious but Detrimental
Though Tami Best labels Costco’s pizza as one of the unhealthiest choices in the food court, it is still delicious but detrimental. The carne pizza is alarming with its 900 calories, 19 grams of saturated fat, and shockingly, 2,525 milligrams of salt. If you watch your fat and salt intake, these figures might cause major health issues.
Though French fries are tempting, they are not a better choice for you. Though they start as healthy potatoes, the fried method and significant salt content turn them into a low-nutrient, high-calorie choice.
Best claims that a startling 63% of the calories in these fries are derived from fat, more than the recommended 30% total fat calories for most individuals. Furthermore, they offer just 3% of calories from protein; experts advise that around 20% of your calories should originate from protein.
4. Fried Foods: Their Drawbacks
The Costco food court has many fried meals, which taste great but may have a range of detrimental health impacts. Tami Best stresses how misleading fried alternatives like the Chicken Bake may be. One Chicken Bake has 81 grams of carbs, 10 grams of saturated fat, and 770 calories. Usually, these dishes have less nutritional content than their grilled or baked equivalents.
Though fried meals are tempting, consider substitutes like grilled chicken, which is significantly healthier and often has a better macronutrient balance. Whenever possible, choose baked or grilled foods rather than fried.
5. Traveling Toward Better Decisions in Health
You shouldn’t completely avoid the Costco food court because some alternatives are bad. Tami Best offers three-pointers here to guide you toward better decisions on your next visit:
a. Search for Whole Food Options
Whole foods are often more nutritious when they are most like their original condition. Look for grilled or baked choices rather than fried foods. For instance, a basic grilled chicken breast is far healthier than a fried chicken sandwich.
b. Select Meals Heavy in Vegetables and Fiber
Try foods high in veggies and fibers. With 34 grams of premium protein and 17 grams of healthy fiber, Tami Best suggests the Costco Beef and Bean Chili as having positive attributes. These nutrients will keep you full, reducing the likelihood of grabbing bad snacks later.
c. Avoid High-Calorie Drinks and Sugary Beverages
Finally, avoid diet sodas and sweet drinks, as they sometimes include synthetic sweeteners that could be harmful to your health. If you like something effervescent, substitute simple soda water. A better option is always to keep yourself hydrated with water.
In Conclusion
There are mouthwatering yet unhealthy choices at the Costco food court that may ruin your wellness efforts. Knowing the unhealthy foods like sugary smoothies, high-calorie cheeseburger combinations, and sodium-laden pizzas can help you make smart decisions.
For a better experience, emphasize whole foods and meals high in fiber and avoid sugary beverages. A little attention will help you enjoy your Costco visits without sacrificing your health.
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