Fast foods, submarine sandwich, turkey, roast beef and ham on white bread with lettuce and tomato
Category: Fast Foods
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
602
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 337 (56.0%) |
Protein | 177 (29.4%) |
Fat | 90 (14.9%) |
Total | 602 (100%) |
Serving: 12 inch sub [413g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Water | 267 (64.7%) |
Carbohydrate | 84 (20.4%) |
Protein | 44 (10.7%) |
Fat | 10.0 (2.4%) |
Ash | 7.7 (1.9%) |
Total | 413 (100%) |
Serving: 12 inch sub [413g]
Benefits
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Provides protein from turkey, roast beef and ham. Protein helps build and repair tissues
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Contains vitamin C from tomatoes which is an antioxidant that supports immune function
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Includes vitamin K from lettuce which supports blood clotting and bone health
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White bread provides carbohydrates which are the body's primary source of energy
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A balanced meal that contains protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals to support overall health and well-being
Risks
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High in sodium due to processed meats like turkey, roast beef and ham. Processed meats have been linked to increased risk of heart disease and stomach cancer
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High in saturated fat and calories from fatty meats and mayonnaise/sauces typically used in submarine sandwiches. Excess saturated fat intake is linked to increased risk of heart disease
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Lacks variety of whole grains, fruits and vegetables. A diet focused only on bread, meat and cheese is low in important nutrients like fiber, vitamins and minerals
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White bread has a high glycemic index which can cause spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels. Frequent high GI meals are associated with increased risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease
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Lettuce and tomato provide little nutritional value compared to the meats, bread and cheese. A more balanced sandwich would incorporate more nutrient-dense toppings
Additional Information
Fast food, specifically a submarine sandwich consisting of turkey, roast beef, and ham on white bread with lettuce and tomato, offers a mix of nutritional benefits and risks. While it may provide some essential nutrients, it also contains components that can be detrimental to health if consumed excessively.
Starting with the positive aspects, turkey, roast beef, and ham are all sources of lean protein. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and producing enzymes and hormones. Including these meats in a sandwich can contribute to meeting daily protein requirements. Additionally, turkey and roast beef are generally lower in fat compared to ham, making them healthier choices for individuals aiming to manage their fat intake.
The inclusion of lettuce and tomato in the sandwich provides essential vitamins and minerals. Lettuce is a good source of vitamin K, which plays a vital role in blood clotting and bone health. It also contains vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function. Tomatoes, on the other hand, are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production, as well as vitamin A and potassium.
However, there are several risks associated with consuming this fast food item. Firstly, the white bread used in submarine sandwiches is typically refined and lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain bread. This can lead to a rapid spike in blood sugar levels and provide fewer health benefits compared to whole grain alternatives.
Another concern is the high sodium content typically found in processed meats like turkey, roast beef, and ham. Excessive sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure, which can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is important to note that individuals with hypertension or other health conditions should be cautious about consuming foods high in sodium, including fast food sandwiches.
Furthermore, the combination of processed meats and white bread may contribute to a high intake of unhealthy saturated fats. These fats can raise levels of LDL cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease. It is advisable to opt for leaner cuts of meat and whole grain bread when choosing a sandwich to minimize the intake of saturated fats.
Additionally, fast food sandwiches are often accompanied by high-calorie condiments such as mayonnaise or creamy dressings. These add-ons can significantly increase the calorie content of the meal, potentially leading to weight gain if consumed regularly.
In conclusion, while a fast food submarine sandwich with turkey, roast beef, and ham on white bread with lettuce and tomato provides some nutritional benefits, it also carries risks. The lean proteins and vitamins from the meats, lettuce, and tomato offer positive attributes. However, the refined white bread, high sodium content, potential for excessive saturated fat intake, and calorie-dense condiments should be considered when consuming this food product. Moderation, choosing healthier bread options, and being mindful of condiments can help mitigate some of the risks associated with fast food sandwiches.