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I think that every market carries the "basics," but, as someone previously stated, the problem begins with preparation. I can testify to it because I have been guilty of it in the past. Sure, you can buy all the ingredients for a salad and make it nice and pretty, however, when you DROWN it in high fat/high calorie dressings, you defeat the purpose. The same goes for veggies. It makes no difference if you smother spinach, squash, greens, etc. in a ton of butter. It all starts with preparation. We have to find alternative means to prepare our food.
It is a cop out to blame the fast food industry for the way America looks. They make money by providing you with convenience. The same is true for any company that has its items sold in stores. How many people take the time to read the nutritional facts on a package? Not many. Since I have become conscience of watching my weight, I read packages like a hawk. I can spend nearly two hours in the market because I have to read every single thing that I pick up. Everyone doesn't do that. You would be surprised at how some common items that we pick up are LOADED with junk. For instance, I had to throw away an entire bag of frozen chicken breasts a few days ago because I read the packaging.
Aside from the markets and your average fast food restaurant, we have to also take into account some of our more "higher" end restaurants. I only attempt to patronize restaurants that provide its nutritional info on the internet or in restaurant. That way, I can determine what I WON'T eat before I get there and won't be tempted by pictures on the menu, fancy descriptions or aromas. And I know that people go to restaurants and order salads, thinking that it's the most friendly items on the menu. NOT! Some salads are insanely high in fat BEFORE the dressing even hits it.
We have to start teaching our kids how to make better food choices and we have to set the example. It can be done.
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