Why We Need Calorie Counts on Menus

I've been eagerly awaiting the new law to go into effect that requires chain restaurants to post calorie counts on their menu items.

In fact, I'd like to see the law expanded. I would love it if movie theatres posted how many calories were in the pop-corn, nachos and other "goodies" they served.

I'd like to see this information for a couple of reasons. First, I really want to know how many calories are in something before I order it. Second, I'm hoping that once restaurants, etc. have to start posting calorie counts, they may actually put some authentic low calorie options on their menus for those of us trying to lose or maintain weight loss.

What gets me upset, in particular, is the "bait and switch" chain restaurants pull when it comes to "salads." The whole purpose of ordering "salad" is generally to watch one's weight. I mean, am I wrong here?????? Do people order them for any other reason????

So why then, do I have to read something like this article (http://health.yahoo.net/experts/eatthis/6-salads-worse-whopper) that basically tells me that you're often better off eating a Whopper, rather than a salad at a chain restaurant???

I'm sorry, but a "salad" should not contain 1,485 calories. Since I can only eat 1,600 calories a day to maintain my weight, I shouldn't have to worry about blowing most of my daily allotment on a salad.

And, I shouldn't have to guess at what the calorie count is going to be prior to ordering. It's already the law in New York City to post calorie counts, and I've really appreciated it when I've eaten in those restaurants. What's particularly interesting is that there are now always a few options that have acceptable calorie counts.

So the law obviously works.