As every college student probably does, I am now working a close to minimum wage job in hopes to earn money over the summer. I am currently working at Chipotle Mexican Grill, and with this, I eat there most days on my breaks. I have previously written my articles about losing weight, divulging into my weight loss journey and my history with disordered eating. Everyday is tough, but I am growing and learning every single day. When I first got hired, I was just relieved to get a job and to earn money. As I realized that I would be eating there everyday, I instantly started to worry about what I would eat and feared I would start to gain the weight that I just lost. With the help of my nutritionist, I learned that I can eat Chipotle five days a week and still be able to lose weight. It's all about what you choose to eat and portions! Portions will make or break you. These are some of the tips that I have gotten from my nutritionist and myself through working at Chipotle!
Tip #1: Pick one carb for your meal.
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When people go to Chipotle, the carbs can add up fast. A tortilla, rice, beans, etc., they are all carbs! Pick one carb a meal or even go half and half on one. One day get a bowl with rice, or a burrito with no rice or beans. Or maybe get a half a serving of rice so you can get corn. Eating 40 carbs a meal is a lot more reasonable than eating 75 or more carbs per meal.
Tip #2: Load up on the salsas!
In whatever Chipotle meal you decide to get, load up on the salsas. They are low in carb and they add volume to your meal. Sometimes when you don't see a lot of food, you will think it is not enough. Sometimes that can lead you to eat shortly after you're finished, even though you aren't hungry. Also, the salsas are pretty yummy!
Tip #3: Always pair your carb with a protein.
Protein makes you feel fuller for longer and it is a great thing to eat. I always pair my carb that I choose with some sort of protein. I am a big fan of the steak, so I usually will get something with steak. I am full for the rest of my shift after eating my meals, which is good!
Tip #4: Cheese is your best friend.
Cheese can be your best friend with your meals at Chipotle. Cheese provides the fats and protein you need! I always get extra cheese with my bowl. And plus, who doesn't love cheese?
Tip #5: Instead of regular chips, get the kids chips!
I really wanted chips when I first started getting my bowls. The big bag of chips gives you so many chips and it runs up the carbs in my meal. So, I decided to get the kids chips instead! In this small, cute bag, there are 8-10 chips, which is a lot more reasonable. And I still get to eat chips!
I hope that these tips help you realize that, you can eat anywhere and still lose weight, including Chipotle. It's all about your choices and the portions of food that you eat! Since I've started working at Chipotle and eating it five or more days a week, I have lost 10 pounds and it is great!
