by C. Lyn Walter

Created on: April 10, 2009   Last Updated: October 04, 2009

Is salad dressing always fattening?

Miriam Webster's definition of the word fattening is, "to make fat, fleshy or plump." The process of becoming fat, fleshy or plump depends on taking in more calories than we are able to metabolize, and a different metabolic equation exists for each and every one of us.

Salad dressings are but one choice we may make on a daily basis. We may as well ask if all bread, meat, fruit or any of the hundreds of other items we choose to eat, are always fattening.

The simple, uncomplicated truth is, all food have the potential to be "fattening" if more is taken in than we can metabolize. It is also true that we may choose to eat anything in moderation as long as we have not exceeded our own personal caloric limits for the day, salad dressings included.

Salad dressings are made with and without oils, mayonnaise, fruit, cheeses, vinegars etc. and there are usually lighter versions of our favorites available. There is usually no reason why a person who is trying to reduce their weight cannot enjoy a serving of anything, as long as they haven't gone over their caloric intake for the day.

If a favorite salad dressing is something one really looks forward to, then planning ahead will ensure it is a viable option when the time comes to enjoy it. This goes for any favorite foods as well.

Having a plan is not only a good way to organize our intake but it also allows us to make sense of our choices, leaving room for the selection of favorite foods. Waiting until the last minute to decide what to eat right now, puts us at risk for choosing under pressure and may contribute to noncompliance.

Noncompliance is usually not taken lightly by the average dieter, in fact it could be the stepping stone towards other dietary indulgences and may be just the excuse we need to give up and pledge to begin again, tomorrow.

Dietary plans that have incorporated realistic goals and caloric allotments work better in the long term because they are doable. All that actually changes is portion control and education to choosing a healthier, lighter approach to all foods on a consistent basis.

This realistic plan is one we choose for life, not for a week or a month. It will trump the grapefruit diet, the spot reducing diet, the all carbs, no carbs, all fat or no fat diet, every time.

Are all salad dressings fattening? No, nothing is fattening in moderation. If you have planned to include a particular favorite as a part of your choices for the day, you can and should enjoy it.

Don't be taken in by the latest diet book or craze. A sensible and logical approach to reclaiming our dietary health is really very basic. Eat a little less, enjoy favorite foods, and move a little more. Everything in balance and moderation.

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