By: Ashley Harris

Is the McDonald’s “Quarter Pounder Deluxe” the newest health food? Health is defined differently in every country and even in every household. Some people might say “Low carb is the healthiest diet!” While others might argue that “Plant based is the healthiest diet!” Although each of these has great possibilities, they both lack at least one of the five macronutrients needed in a well-balanced and sustainable diet.

What are the five macronutrients, you might ask. Well, according to the Nutrient Department at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts; In a well-balanced meal, you need one of these five macronutrients: Carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins (most commonly found in fruits and vegetables), and whole grains.

When someone thinks of a well-balanced meal, their mind will most likely drift to a salad or something of the sort. While this meal is great for getting vitamins and possibly protein; that is only 2 of the 5 necessary macronutrients.

Whereas, If we look at the “Quarter Pounder Deluxe” from McDonald’s, we see a bun, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, meat patty, and pickles. In this meal, you will find carbohydrates in the bun; protein in the meat patty and cheese; vitamins in the lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles; fat in the cheese, bun, and meat patty; and whole grains in the bun.

Now some might argue that this still isn’t a well-balanced meal due to the grease or artificial ingredients, but no diet is well balanced or sustainable without allowing your body the things they crave. Remember, health isn’t always about improving physical health but improving mental health as well. As well-known nutritionist, Anupama Menon once said, “Make your food routine easy on yourselves, eat what you make in the kitchen, eat enough. Discipline lies in balance, not in deprivation.”

So, is the McDonald’s “Quarter Pounder Deluxe” really the worst food for your health?