Everyone loves a big juicy burger, who could blame you? But would the adoration remain if you knew that it could represent half a day’s calories? Most Tweetwhatyoueat burger eaters guesstimated that their burger was only 313 calories when the range of fast food burgers starts at 380 and goes up over 800! Yikes, foiled again.

Here is what makes the difference:

• How many ounces of beef are in that burger?
  • Estimate at least 200-300 calories for the patty on its own. Most are about 100 grams or 3 ounces for small single patties
  • For instance McDonalds Angus burger meat alone has 320 calories because it is likely 5 or 6 ounces

• What kind of beef?
  • Extra lean is at the 200 calorie end, add 100 calories for each juicier cut up to medium and regular...

• How is it cooked?
  • Charcoal grilling (where the fat can drip away) is best
  • Add 30-60 calories for broiling or pan frying (the fat clings)

• How big is the bun?
  • McD’s Angus is one of the biggest and it weighs in at 240 calories

• What do you have on it?
  • Each condiment will cost you between 25 and 50 (mayo!)
  • Mustard has no calories
  • Dill pickles are low enough not to count
  • Onion rings/bacon are just pointless

• Cheese?
  • Add 100 calories

Still want your burger? Me too!

Here is how to do it without killing yourself…literally.

1. Choose: the smallest charcoal grilled burger you can find
2. Load it: with only mustard and pickles plus any other raw veg they offer
3. Go topless: Use the lettuce as a top bun and toss half the bread
4. Enjoy as infrequently as possible and you are on your healthy way

Making a better burger at home? Recipe here!

1. Go half turkey, half beef
2. Add spinach to the mix
3. Make them small
4. Top with flavour and nutrient dense yogurt/blue cheese instead of condiments
5. Still toss half the bun!