As a society, we eat out more often than ever. Most people eat out for lunch every day and also several times a week for dinner. As fast-food and dining chains continue to scatter over our country and the rest of the world, we often find ourselves eating meals with no idea of the nutritional value (or NON-value) of the food.

Back in 1990, legislation was passed that required all packaged food to contain nutrition information. What probably seemed extreme to some at the time has proven to help millions of people be more aware of what they are putting into their bodies. And whether it is healthy for them or not. . . the information is there for them to see.

Much more recently, in March of this year, Congress passed legislation that will require a restaurant chain with 20 (or in some states as few as 15) or more locations to post the calorie counts on its staple dishes; excluding daily specials or regularly changing items. Although there are several opposing views in this matter, as there are in any issue, I am very glad that this action has been approved.

I looked around the internet and found very interesting remarks from the PRO and the CON sides. Many people stated that it is common sense when a food is "junk" or healthy. . . but you might be surprised. First off, in my experience with the general population, most people are quite clueless about their nutrition. Secondly, many of the seemingly healthy options that you choose are actually just as bad as that greasy pizza that you have proudly avoided. . . and you have been wondering just HOW those extra 10 pounds got there. For example, the Fugi Apple Grilled Chicken Salad at Panera has 31 fat grams, while the BBQ Bacon Double Cheeseburger at Wendy's has 23 grams and less calories! All of the sudden nutrition doesn't seem quite so Mr. Obvious now does it?

One respondent who was against the new law stated: "Why on earth would we want to do that? For the sake of some guilt trip? To punish fat people? To make eating out as unpleasant and boring as possible?" My reply: Hmm, I dunno. . . How boring is it to be on a treadmill for four hours to work off that meal?

Another common con was from the restaurant industry. Many claimed that it would ruin their businesses and that listing nutrition is infringing upon their rights. This certainly doesn't have to be the case. In fact, it could actually help their revenue. Take Subway for example, they have built a huge following by having healthier sub options. Sure they still have their cheesy meatball subs and the like, but they give their customers that option and have the information readily available in their locations. And as far as restaurant rights are concerned, I feel the right to know what you are putting in your body trumps the right for restaurants to put whatever they choose in a meal with no disclosure. I am sure that there are some of you who are thinking "Well then, just don't eat out." But with more people traveling/commuting for work, and with the entertainment and socialization that dining every so often provides, that simply is not realistic for many people.

I understand how some do not want to know their caloric intake at every meal, nor do I. But for those who want to be informed, they should have the option. It is their body and their nutrition. Consider it another tool to add to your box!