Living in the digital age definitely has its perks. For starters, there are plenty of food delivery apps you can use to order your favorite food. Plus, with all the deals out there, it can sometimes even be cheaper. So, given the option between eat in or take out, which one should you choose?
Even though cooking might not sound as exciting as ordering take out, you should cook anyway. Restaurant food is not always healthy nor the best choice and here are some reasons why you should prepare your own meals. Let’s begin by talking about them:
It’s Cheaper
The biggest advantage to cooking your own food is that it can save you money. Yes, no matter how cheap the take out deal is or how much food you might get in a single deal, ordering takeout is more expensive if you order take out regularly.
Look at it this way; if you order a meal from a restaurant, on average you can spend around $20 per meal. Instead, with the same $20, you can easily prepare 3 to 4 meals at home. Remember, meat, vegetables and other ingredients are a lot less expensive than ordering in. In the long run, you’ll be saving a lot of money eating in, even if it doesn't feel that way.
Promotes a Healthy Lifestyle
Although restaurants claim they serve healthy food, it’s not always true. According to a study conducted by Julia A. Wolfson, fast food served in restaurants is pretty high in fats and sodium. So, at any given time, you are consuming unhealthy food.
This study also found that people who cook more often rather than eating take out have a healthier diet. When you cook your own meal, you put in fresh ingredients. Therefore, you have total control over what goes into your food and this can make a big impact to your health.
Track Your Calories
If you are still deciding whether to eat in or take out, we suggest you eat in to keep an eye on those calories. Did you know that the average fast-food order has between 1100 and 1200 calories in total? Yup, that’s right.
When compared to the daily average of 2000 calories for women and 2500 calories for men, it’s clear that ordering take out equals consuming more daily calories. When you make a meal for yourself, you not only control the portion size, but since most recipes include their nutritional information, it’s much easier to keep track of the calories.
Time Saving
It might not seem that way, but this is definitely true. Think about it. When you order takeout food, you have to wait for it to be delivered. Depending on the area where you live, this could take a while. Also, if the delivery person does not know the address, it takes even longer.
When you cook at home, it doesn’t take that much time. You can put together a nice, small meal in no time. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just something that is nutritious and fills you up. To get you started, here are 3 Soups that go from stove to table in 30 minutes or less.
Reduces Temptation
The eat in or take out debate becomes a no-brainer when you are dieting. When on a diet, your main focus becomes not to give into temptation. Scrolling through different food apps, might tempt you into ordering food that does not quite fit your new diet regimen.
In contrast, cooking in your kitchen, will not expose you to greater temptation. Most likely, you’ll cook something healthy and nutritious and more on par with your new diet lifestyle. While it is possible you will not be tempted as you scroll though those apps, it’s best to stay away to achieve success with your diet.
Energy Increase
We have already established that ordering take out can be unhealthy. So if you cook at home, you will be cooking healthy food that will give you more energy to allow you to go about your day. You might even find yourself with more energy to do that extra load of laundry, do the dishes more quickly and easily, and even go for a brisk walk after dinner.
When you eat food that is higher in calories and lower in nutritional value, you might find yourself becoming more lethargic during the day. You might not have the energy to go about your day despite eating lots of food. To avoid this problem, eat in for a change and see how it can improve your energy levels.
More Family Time
Let’s face it, all of us are guilty of neglecting our family on some level. In this digital age, where we are constantly surrounded by technology, it has become increasingly difficult to connect with the important people in our lives, especially at home.
However, when you cook at home, it can present an excellent opportunity to bond with your family. You can talk to your children and connect over making dinner. Perhaps you could try new recipes as a family and see how it turns out. You won’t be disappointed!
It’s Super Fun
Cooking might seem like a boring task, but it can be super fun! Besides learning to connect with your family, you can also discover new flavors. For instance, when you are trying out a new recipe, you can discover new ingredients and seasonings. You might also learn more about different cuisine styles.
Trust us. One of the best ways to unwind, especially after a long hard day, is cooking. The more time you spend in the kitchen, the better you’ll become at making fantastic flavorful meals. So, if you’re still deciding to eat in or take out, we definitely recommend you eat in.
More Personalized
Yup, that’s also true. Sure, you can always ask the restaurant to hold the spice or to cook your steak well-done, but you still might not like the results. However, if you decide to eat in, you can always prepare the food according to your preferences.
You can add the exact amount of spice that you want and create a special blend that is uniquely to your liking. There is no compromising on food when you are the one cooking it! So relax and get busy in the kitchen. The flavorful possibilities are endless.
Last thoughts
It definitely pays off to eat in, doesn’t it? The above reasons clearly show that. Also, with the rise in coronavirus, you should become more proactive and start cooking. You’ll experience the difference. So, the next time you are wondering if you should eat in or take out, opt for eating in. It is the healthier option and one that can keep you around for a long time. So what are you waiting for?