Health halo effect: Why you should never order the salad at a fast food outlet | Brain Fodder

A study comparing the two restaurants found that those who ate at Subway underestimated the calories in their meals more than those who ate at McDonald's.

Because Subway sandwiches are considered healthier, people are more likely to add a cookie and a soda. While people who eat at McDonald's are not under the health-halo so they’re less likely to order sides with a Big Mac.

Research indicates that people don’t check the labels and assume that products marketed as healthy contain fewer calories than standard items. They see the “healthy” items as representing the less guilty option and so eat more of them.

• Avoid fast food.
• Stay away from high-fat preparation methods (fried, deep-fried, batter-dipped, breaded, crispy, etc. )
• Stick to your calorie consumption goal.
• Cut condiments like mayo, sauces and dressings
• Watch what you put on the side – avoid high-fat sides like fries and choose undressed salad instead.