(WOIO) -
Studies show that American's intake of calories from fast food is down to about 11%.
Laura Jeffers, a registered dietician at the Cleveland Clinic, says the drop from 12.8% from 2003-2006 to 11.3% from 2007-20-10 is movement in the right direction.
"I think it has to do with getting the word out about prevention and wellness and the increase in trying to have healthier diets. Perhaps it's more planning ahead and eating at home," said Jeffers.
Fast food got its name for a reason, we just grab what we can when we can and that can pack on the pounds. Jeffers says think before you buy.
"I always recommend that when you go out to any restaurant you're getting the smaller size. If you really want the french fries get the small. So it's treating yourself but being mindful about it but there's really no reason to have that super size."
"So what about exercise, how important is it in conjunction with eating? We can compound the positive impact of eating fewer calories?" asked 19 Action News Reporter Harry Boomer.
"Exercise is always recommended, a lot of people feel that you have to exercise when you're eating healthy and it's really too much for a lot of people to handle. So start eating healthy and then ease your way into it," said Jeffers.
The good news is that many eateries, including fast food restaurants now provide the number of calories in some of their most popular foods.
Copyright 2013 WOIO. All rights reserved.
