Updated by Ann Nothwehr, Dietetic Student, University of Missouri-Columbia and Robin Gammon, RD, LD, Extension Associate, University of Missouri-Columbia

As Americans we have been brought up to believe in the "bigger is better" rule. Just look at what we purchase: oversized SUV and 60-inch big screen TVs. Eight ounce steaks, jumbo cookies and ever larger hamburgers prove how we cling to this motto for even our food selections. We may be getting more for our buck and a bigger meal, but we are ending up suffering the consequences by having to carry around extra pounds.

Why is America expanding?

Not only do we like large things, Americans also find it hard to pass up a good bargain. A meal including a quarter-pounder with cheese, a large non diet pop and large fries is a whopping 1400 calories and 55 grams of fat. This total is almost what most women need for a whole day, not a meal. Looking at food in this way helps explain where our added weight may be coming from. Choosing a meal of a hamburger, apple slices, and water means a more reasonable total of 300 calories and 14 grams of fat. Or you can even save more calories and fat grams by packing your own lunch that incorporates more nutritious vegetables and meat.

Have Americans always eaten like this?

Absolutely not! Just look back to the 1950's even ethnic food that first came to the U.S. were offered in smaller portions.

You can see why obesity is increasing in the U.S.

What's the bottom line?

Ask for a nutrition facts sheet when at a fast food restaurant. Think about how hungry you are and then order. If you listen to your stomach and eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full you will reduce your intake of unnecessary calories and be making a significant nutritional change.

For more information

The Downside of Supersize

Are Fast food meals really that bad?