The prolific writer David Zinczenko, Editor-in-Chief of Men's Health Magazine is regularly publishing books that assist the consumer with better food choices.  His latest title--Eat This Not That!: The No-Diet Weight Loss Solution, is chock full of glossy photos of food choices from chain restaurants.  Packed with "secrets" about how to save on calories when dining out, at a family barbeque, or while purchasing groceries, this softcover is small enough to take on the road.

A few years ago, my good friends, Mike and Betty, opened a Jimmy John's sandwich franchise.  The business was the first in our suburban Florida neighborhood and did quite well.  Spread across the United States, you know what you're getting when you walk in the door.  And that is probably one of the greatest advantages of franchise dining, you'll know what to expect.  Zinczenko says that what you probably don't know is that Jimmy John's vegetables are from local sources and are delivered on a daily basis, ensuring freshness.  Unlike Subway, Jimmy John's meats are delivered unsliced, and both veggies and meats are cut daily.  This is true.  My friend Betty also arrived before dawn to freshly bake the bread--both white and whole wheat.

Zinczenko adds that to save on calories--the glory of his book--eat the Turkey Breast Slim Sub rather than the Turkey Tom.  His additional secret is to pass on the mayo and substitute avocado spread--shaving off 200 calories, 24 grams of fat, and 98 grams of sodium.  Other worthy picks are the Totally Tuna Sub (507 calories) and the Vegetarian Sub (290 calories).  Zinczenko advises everyone to pass on the Pepe Sub (684 calories), the Gourmet Veggie Club (856 calories), and my son's favorite--The J.J. Gargantuan (1,008 calories)!

My favorite lunch was specially made by Betty--the Unwich.  A sandwich without bread, rolled in a lettuce wrap instead!

Other notable restaurant chains mentioned by Zinczenko: Applebee's, Sbarro, Schlotzsky's, Smoothie King, Starbucks, Taco Bell, Wendy's, McDonald's, KFC, Denny's, and many others.  Whether you're doing the Midnight breakfast with friends, or catching a mid-morning brunch on the run, there are still good food choices available, but it's up to you to make them.

David Zinczenko