Downsize

Is downsizing good? Most of us would say, no way. But in this case, it is!

Here's the usual scenario in a fastfood joint.

Customer: I'd like to order Meal #4.
Counter Staff: Would you like to upsize?
Customer: (Choice)
Counter Staff: What about sundae (or soup, etc), sir?
Customer: (Choice)
Counter Staff: Anything else, sir?
Customer: (Choice)

They pull you in, hoping you'd make the right decision for the business. Remember, you can always say No for your health.

If you choose not to upsize, you say no to more calories, sodium, cholesterol and all those other freebies that you get in your meal. I don't mean the toy that comes with the meal but rather the trans fats, etc. And that would translate to a better cholesterol profile, body fat and weight.

Other ways to downsize are opting for a kiddie meal or splitting an entree. If the restaurant refuses to serve you a kiddie meal, assert your right to be served the amount you want.

The first time I dined at Fish and Co ShangriLa, I ordered a kiddie meal. They served me allright but was told that I couldn't do that next time around. I told them what I thought and why I wanted a smaller-sized serving through their feedback form. (Those forms work. Don't think of filling them up as a chore. Use them well.) I've dined there several times since then and they have allowed me my kiddie servings.

Way to go, Fish and Co. and other food establishments who are just as nutrition-friendly.

Let's choose to downsize!