Alison Goldman

Resveratrol is a natural compound found in some plantsits been ID'd in red grape skins (and therefore red wine), grape juice, some berries, and peanuts. Bottles of resveratrol supplements claim it promotes healthy aging, heart health, and cellular healthand people also seek out the supplement for help losing weight.

But is popping resveratrol in pill form the health elixir it's hyped up to be? Let's investigate.

<h1> What are resveratrol supplements exactly? </h1>

The resveratrol you can pick up in the supplement aisle is made using ingredients like extract from and . These over-the-counter supplements contain way, way more resveratrol than the amount you consume in foods: A supplement dosage is often 100 to 500 milligrams, while red wine only contains up to 2 milligrams of resveratrol per liter, says Marina K. Holz, PhD, dean of the Graduate School of Basic Medical Sciences and a professor of cell biology and anatomy at New York Medical College, whos done research on resveratrol. That means youd need to drink 50 liter bottles of red wine to get the same amount of resveratrol as whats in one 100-milligram supplement.

From that perspective, it makes sense that someone who wants to increase their consumption of resveratrol would turn to supplementsclearly, youd be hard-pressed to get that amount of resveratrol from eating alone. But the next question is, is that necessary?

<h1> What are the health benefits of resveratrol? </h1>

Research has shown that resveratrol has many effects on the cellular level. One is that it appears to activate sirtuins, a class of proteins that have been linked to aging, metabolic health, and inflammation, among other things. <a href="https://faculty.biu.ac.il/~cohenh6/publications/smallMoleculeFull.pdf" id="367fe5f6-b506-3cdc-a569-d6ce9cdbebfb"> That discovery </a> , which was made in the early 2000s, is what . have also come out showing that resveratrol may protect against aging in yeast, fruit flies, roundworms, and mice (see: not humans).

As research on resveratrol has continued, scientists have looked into its potential usefulness for treating conditions including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurological disorders. Because resveratrol acts through many cellular molecules that are typically involved in these diseases, says Holz, this provided the rationale for using resveratrol to treat these conditions.

However, as Holz and her colleagues wrote in a of clinical trials involving resveratrol, while theres lots of resveratrol research thats been done in labs and on animals, there is little clinical evidence that resveratrol is an effective therapeutic in humans.

Some human trials have demonstrated that resveratrol might help treat the conditions above but that has definitely not been proven; other studies havent shown any benefits. And in that observed a resveratrol formulations effect on people with multiple myeloma, a type of cancer, some patients developed renal failure.

Holzs overall takeaway from formulating the 2017 review is that the effects of resveratrol were quite mild across multiple clinical trials. She says its possible that, if its administered with other drugs, resveratrol could increase the therapeutic effects of those other meds, but researchers need to investigate that hypothesis further in order to say so.

Basically: We need to stay tuned for more definitive research that applies to humans.

<h1> Whats up with all the resveratrol weight loss claims? </h1>

While a lot of research has looked at resveratrol and various diseases, other studies have examined how it relates to obesity. "Resveratrol has been shown to be involved in several cellular pathways that are involved in insulin sensitivity, sensing of nutrients, metabolism, and energy production," explains Holz. For those reasons, it's been suggested that resveratrol could impact obesity.

In fact, a 2019 clinical review determined that have found the compound to be associated with lower body weight, body mass index, and waist circumference. However, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27379440/" id="da48b4d8-652f-3b74-acb1-8085f2f6e2f5"> another clinical review published in 2016 </a> which Holz noted used much more stringent criteria for study inclusionfound insufficient evidence to support the recommendation of resveratrol supplements in management of obesity.

Holzs theory is that, when it comes to weight loss, resveratrol triggers a placebo effect: We did not find much evidence that taking resveratrol on its own can assist in controlling weight, she says. But if someone is concerned about their weight and they start taking a supplement, they're probably also thinking about other behavioral modifications.

Her point: If you take resveratrol supplements and also start eating healthier and exercising more, its likely not the resveratrol thats helping you see results.

<h1> Are there safety concerns associated with resveratrol supplements I should know about? </h1>

Big reminder that, just like with all supplements, the resveratrol supplements for safety and effectiveness before theyre marketed.

Holz says that, generally speaking, resveratrol supplements are safe for healthy people to take. ( rates resveratrol as when taken in doses up to 1,500 milligrams daily for up to three months.)

However, if you're considering taking resveratrol supplements, you should definitely talk to your doctor first. Resveratrol interacts negatively with , including blood thinners. Resveratrol is also a phytoestrogen, which means it acts like the hormone estrogen, so its possible that resveratrol could be harmful to someone whos susceptible to estrogen-related diseases, says Holz.

That applies to pregnancy, too: It has the potential to actually be harmful to the developing fetus, Holz says. Resveratrol has not been studied in pregnant women, so like with many other supplements and drugs, the recommendation is to avoid it in pregnancy.

Holz adds that side effects like gastrointestinal tract irritation have also been seen in people who take more than than the amount in a daily supplement.

Ultimately, while resveratrol seems to be safe for healthy people, the supplements also dont have any proven benefits, Holz says. So I dont recommend using resveratrol supplements, she says.

Still interested in trying them? Definitely talk to your physician before you do.

What To Know About Resveratrol Supplements

in the U.S. pop a on the regularwhether that's vitamin D or C, a probiotic or prenatal vitamin, magnesium, or melatonin. But theres another one in the store that rakes in tens of millions of dollars worth of sales per year: resveratrol supplements .

What Are Resveratrol Supplements—And Do They Have Any Health Benefits?

Amid the <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31406983/when-will-coronavirus-end/" id="f8bddd21-7b3b-332c-ac44-79eeda6eac3c"> COVID-19 pandemic </a> , everyone and their mother is doing everything they can to keep their distance from others, avoid touching their face, and maintain squeaky-clean hands.

For many, that involves applying gobs upon gobs of <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a31248244/does-hand-sanitizer-work/" id="59182ee0-f4fa-3049-a69b-3ffc0c0368b9"> hand sanitizer </a> . But can too much of a good thing turn into a potentially unhealthy thing?

There are various theories speculating that OD'ing on hand sanitizer could lead to everything from the creation of viruses or pathogens that can't be killed by sanitizer or antibiotics to the idea that by using hand sanitizer all the time you're reducing your body's own ability to fight disease.

But there is no evidence to support those claims.

So to separate some hand sanitizer fact versus fiction, here's everything you need to know about whether or not hand sanitizer could have negative effects on your health and immunity if you use it too often, with the help of <a href="https://stanfordhealthcare.org/doctors/l/anne-liu.html" id="f0e7e2ad-1ff1-3cc6-ad9c-3d96c69ceaed"> Anne Liu, MD </a> , an infectious disease doctor and allergist/immunologist at Stanford Medicine.

Tell me: Is using hand sanitizer a lot bad for my immunity?

Dr. Liu says there's no such thing as washing your hands or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer too often during this pandemic. There's no scientific basis to think that hand sanitizers or soaps should affect one's immune system or affect bacterial resistance, she says. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol when soap and water arent available, both and .

The CDC also <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/handhygiene/pdfs/provider-factsheet-508.pdf" id="c89648ca-3d4f-3c22-abd9-530ca3e7d7a2"> states </a> : Using alcohol-based hand sanitizer does not cause antibiotic resistance. ... Alcohol-based hand sanitizers kill germs quick and in a different way than antibiotics. There is no chance for the germs to adapt or develop resistance.

One way disinfecting your hands can indirectly leave you susceptible to pathogens is through its drying effect: I have seen that some people's hand-washing habits have left them with dry, cracked skin, and that can predispose to bacteria invading into the skin, says Dr. Liu. But as long as the skin barrier is intact, this shouldn't be an issue.

The easy solution here? <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g29444973/best-hand-creams/" id="885f1f00-2d69-3177-a2bf-3b838afaa2d4"> Moisturize </a> ! Oh, and dont just replace hand washing or hand sanitizing with wearing gloves in publictheyre not an equal substitute. Gloves are just a barrier method, and can give you a false sense of security. I see people out in public wearing gloves and touching all kinds of stuff at the grocery store, and then using the same gloves to adjust their glasses and dial on their phones, says Dr. Liu.

If you do wear gloves out, you still need to avoid touching your face, wash your hands after using them, and disinfect the things you did touch while you had the gloves on, like your keys.

But Ive heard embracing a germy world can be good for immunity. Whats the deal?

Again, theres no such thing as cleaning your hands too much right now, says Dr. Liu. The convo about how germs are good for you derives from the , which is the idea that exposing people, and in particular kids, to germs allows their immune systems to properly develop and helps them avoid health issues like asthma and allergies. Basically: This theory says its possible to clean and disinfect too much, that doing so could have detrimental effects on peoples health over time. But this doesn't apply to the current pandemic situation, despite the misconceptions.

Heres the thing: Regardless of where you come down on the five-second rule in the regular world, the current world is a totally different beastdont test the hygiene hypothesis by exposing yourself to COVID-19.

<h1> So can I keep sanitizing my hands as I see fit? </h1>

You bet. Dr. Liu says to keep up the hand washing and hand sanitizing, which are both excellent at killing COVID-19. I don't think that people need to worry too much about over-hand sanitizing or washing their hands too much, as long as they're taking care of their skin, she says.

Is Using Hand Sanitizer All The Time Bad For You?

Does Hand Sanitizer Weaken Your Immune System? A Doctor Weighs In

<h1> Surprise, surprise: Most of the people experiencing this confusing health-care back-and-forth are women. </h1>

How To Get Your Doctor To *Really* Listen To You

Women are more likely to suffer from hard-to-diagnose conditions ranging from fibromyalgia and autoimmune diseases to reproductive issues like <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a30780774/endometriosis-azmia-magane-essay/" id="5ed19c9d-243b-3aa0-a2c5-08056b160c33"> endometriosis </a> and <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a30766105/pcos-radical-body-love-laura-burns/" id="0672ad47-0c62-3cb4-a5ad-300116d04bba"> polycystic ovary syndrome </a> (PCOS). Scientific research has historically excluded women, which piles onto the problem, explains Alyson J. McGregor, MD, cofounder and director of the Division of Sex and Gender in Emergency Medicine at Brown University and author of the forthcoming book Sex Matters: How Male-Centric Medicine Endangers Womens Health and What Women Can Do About It.

If and when a diagnosis does come? Depending on what that label is, a woman may face a barrage of unique biases. Women are described in studies as more sensitive to pain than men, and women with pain are perceived as more emotional. (Or, you know, maybe were just on our periods! Eye roll.)

It becomes very difficult to trust yourself when an expert in a white coat whos been to medical school for years is saying that your own experience of your body is not accurate, says journalist Maya Dusenbery, author of Doing Harm: The Truth About How Bad Medicine and Lazy Science Leave Women Dismissed, Misdiagnosed, and Sick.

For anyone out there navigating a stressful health situation who isn't feeling truly heard, Dusenbery talked to WH about what to say to get your doc to listen. And if you still dont leave satisfied, dont be afraid to seek out a second opinion, or as many opinions as it takes to get the right diagnosis, Dusenbery says.

<h1> If your provider says: Thats normal. </h1>

Follow up with: This may be normal for someone else, but I know whats normal for me, and this is not something Ive experienced before.

For example, if a doctor tells you it could just be stress, Dusenbery suggests explaining what stress typically looks like in your body and how these symptoms are different from that.

<h1> If your provider says: We dont need to test for that. </h1>

Follow up with: How did you arrive at that conclusion?

This one is tricky, admits Dusenbery, because medical overtesting is a real issue. That said, you are most definitely entitled to ask your doc to explain their reasoning.

<h1> If your provider says: Maybe youre just not getting enough sleep/exercise/etc. </h1>

Follow up with: This is how my symptoms are functionally impacting my life.

Dusenbery says its harder for doctors to disregard how a symptom like fatigue or pain is objectively affecting you versus how its making you feel subjectively. So if you are too tired to walk your dog or take a shower, say that explicitly.

<h1> If your provider says: Lets give it some time. </h1>

Follow up with: Heres when I started experiencing the problem, and heres how its progressed since.

The idea, says Dusenbery, is to emphasize that you feel youve already waited and still havent improved (or maybe have even gotten worse), to encourage your doctor to deal with the problem now, not in a few weeks.

But whats worse is not knowing the reason you feel crappy. Finding a diagnosis for some conditions can mean traveling from doctor to doctor and enduring a slew of tests, some of which may be uncomfortable and invasive. Negative results can mean starting back at square onea new guess at what the illness might be, a new set of providers, and even more poking and proddinglike the worlds worst game of Chutes and Ladders.

So, Your Doctor Isn’t Listening To You. Here Are 4 Effective Ways To Respond

Chicken with Noodles Bento Box at Sarku Japan A bento boxespecially one with chickenmight seem like a healthy choice at first glance, but they're "high in sodium and sneak in more calories than you may think," says Amer. This one has 1,610 milligrams of sodium and 950 calories. Healthier option: Amer recommends getting creative and making your own "bento box" using the sides menu. Think: edamame and chicken egg roll, which have 560 and 340 milligrams of sodium, respectively. "Be sure to sip on water too," she adds. Jeff Greenberg - Getty Images

New York Meat Primo Pizza Slice at Sbarro Just one of these guys <a href="https://sbarro.com/SbarroNutritionalGuide.pdf" id="de16fab8-4b5f-3d88-a12f-1e6dd6418ef9"> clocks in </a> at a whopping 28 grams of fat, 12 grams of saturated fat, and 1,740 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: A New York Mushroom Pizza Slice, says Amer. By choosing a veggie option, you're adding vitamins and minerals and reducing the amount of total fat [14 grams], saturated fat [six grams], and sodium [850 milligrams] in your slice. Scott Olson - Getty Images

Roman Double Duo Pizza Slice at Sbarro If you thought the New York Meat Primo Pizza Slice was high in sodium, meet this slice, which has 1,860 milligrams of the stuff. Healthier option: Choose the Roman Cheese Pizza Slice to slash the sodium by [about] 700 milligrams, suggests Amer. But, she points out, its still a high sodium option at the food court! Scott Olson - Getty Images

Chow Mein at Panda Express Chow Mein is <a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/PandaExpressWebsite/files/pdf/Nutrition.pdf" id="d7e3a1c4-3093-3208-a9a2-1c0ffeae45ff"> considered </a> a side dish at Panda Express. It's also got 20 grams of fat and 860 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: Amer throws out two possibilities here. One: "If you're in the mood for Chow Mein, just get the kid's meal," she says. It has much less fat and sodium (12 grams and 540 milligrams, respectively). Two: If this is your entree, pick the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken instead for its lean protein and lower sodium. It has 13 grams of fat and 530 milligrams of sodium. Jeff Greenberg - Getty Images

Fried Rice at Panda Express Another side, this one dishes out 520 calories and 850 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: "Choose a veggie-based option that's not fried," says Amer. For example, she suggests the Super Greens entree, which has just 45 calories and 130 milligrams of sodium. Jeff Greenberg - Getty Images

Sour Cream and Onion Pretzel at Auntie Anne's If a mall doesn't have an Auntie Anne's, is it even really a mall? This food court staple offers several pretzel flavors, obviously, and the Sour Cream and Onion version <a href="https://cdn.auntieannes.com/-/media/auntie-annes/files/auntie-annes-nutritional-guide.pdf?v=1&amp;d=20180530T163306Z&amp;_ga=2.162783034.7099463.1577144586-929917644.1576506812" id="ea07575c-0ff0-3d2d-a540-3beb81df2187"> is one of the unhealthiest </a> , with 380 calories, eight grams of fat, and 1,240 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: "Split an Original Pretzel with no butter with a friend for a better choice with less calories, fat, and sodium," says Amer. (That has 310 calories, one gram of fat, and 990 milligrams of sodium.) "To balance out this snack and add flavor," she adds, "dip it in cheese for a small boost of protein. While adding calories and fat, you'll stay full longer to fuel your shopping trip." Jeff Greenberg - Getty Images

Mini Pretzel Dogs at Auntie Anne's Don't be deceived by the word "mini." Eat all 10 of these, and you'll consume 35 grams of fat. Healthier option: Easy: Just go for an Original Pretzel Dog, and skip the butter. It's "a lighter option with less than half the fat [16 grams] of an order of the mini pretzel dogs," Amer points out. JIM WATSON - Getty Images

Reuben at Arby's It's a signature, and <a href="https://cds.arbys.com/pdfs/nutrition/Arbys_Nutritional__Allergen_Info_JAN1.pdf" id="52ca13ac-aefe-3042-a7d5-d54804a0489f"> it's got </a> 680 calories and 2,420 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: "Try the Turkey Gyro [at select locations] instead for nearly 1,000 milligrams less sodium [it has 1,520] and 200 fewer calories [it has 470]," says Amer. Jeff Greenberg - Getty Images

The Half-Pound French Dip and Swiss Au Jus at Arby's This guy "contains 3,400 milligrams sodium, which is more than the daily recommended sodium limit!" says Amer. It also has 740 calories and 35 grams of fat. Healthier option: "Instead," she says, "choose a Classic Roast Beef sandwich." That one has 970 milligrams of sodium, 360 calories, and 14 grams of fat. Rick Diamond - Getty Images

Roast Turkey Ranch and Bacon Sandwich at Arby's This sandwich "comes with roast deli-style turkey, peppercorn ranch sauce, and thick-cut pepper bacon," according to Arby's. It also comes with 800 calories, 34 grams of fat, and 2,420 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: "Swap a Roast Turkey and Swiss Wrap for fewer calories, fat, and sodium, says Amer. This choice has 520 calories, 27 grams of fat, and 1,640 milligrams of sodium. PAUL J. RICHARDS - Getty Images

Glazed Jelly Stick at Dunkin' Donuts Get this: A <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/en/food-drinks/donuts/donuts" id="dea7f94e-21a5-3f08-a874-b539ab59db07"> Glazed Jelly Stick </a> packs 530 calories. While... Healthier option: ...a Glazed Jelly Donut has 280 calories, points out Amer. Really. Andrew Burton - Getty Images

Caramel Swirl Frozen Coffee with Cream at Dunkin' Donuts <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/en/food-drinks/frozen-drinks/frozen-iced-coffee" id="f049cd98-eaa7-3887-a16f-4b06f43841dc"> A large of these babies </a> ? 1,120 calories. Healthier option: Switch to a small and opt for milk instead of cream, says Amer. The result with skim: 470 calories. Rachel Murray - Getty Images

Nashville Hot Extra Crispy Chicken Breast at KFC Pick crispy, and <a href="https://www.kfc.com/nutrition/full-nutrition-guide" id="665f4a5e-5618-3845-a296-e815d289c898"> you end up </a> with 770 calories and 1,530 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: Go grilled, says Amer. The Kentucky Grilled Chicken Breast comes in at 210 calories and 710 milligrams of sodium. Tim Boyle - Getty Images

KFC Famous Bowl at KFC With mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy chicken, home-style gravy, and shredded cheeses, this bowl is full of 740 calories and 2,350 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: When you choose the snack-sized version instead, as Amer recommends, you'll consume 270 calories and 850 milligrams of sodium. LAURIE DIEFFEMBACQ - Getty Images

Peanut Butter Moo'd Smoothie at Jamba Juice "The <a href="https://www.jamba.com/smoothies/classic/peanut-butter" id="6073583b-99f7-3015-ac9a-db78d6e384d0"> Peanut Butter Moo'd </a> is more like a milkshake than a healthy smoothie, as it's made with frozen yogurt," says Amer. Even the small contains 63 grams of sugar. The large has 119 grams of the stuff. Healthier option: "Look for an option without a frozen yogurt or sherbert base, like the <a href="https://www.jamba.com/smoothies/power" id="60242f59-2b9f-3256-a212-378eaf52cfc5"> Protein Berry Workout </a> [smoothie] with soy or whey protein," suggests Amer. "The ingredients are only soy milk, strawberries, bananas, and soy or whey proteinall recognizable with much less added sugar. To customize your smoothie even more, ask for half of the amount of fruit." Bob Berg - Getty Images

Cinnabon Classic Roll at Cinnabon Sometimes you just crave Cinnabon. It's good to note, though, that you can get the same flavors as you find in the classic roll for fewer than <a href="https://cdn.cinnabon.com/-/media/cinnabon/nutrition/cinnabonnutritionalguide.pdf?v=1&amp;d=20190114T173054Z" id="2bad26de-03b1-3543-ab2e-684f3a10d690"> its </a> 880 calories, 37 grams of fat, 1,140 milligrams of sodium, and 58 grams of sugar. Healthier option: The answer, says Amer, is super easy: Just go with the MiniBon Roll, which is still more than a third of the size of the original and has 350 calories, 15 grams of fat, 330 milligrams of sodium, and 23 grams of sugar. Tannis Toohey - Getty Images

Caramel Pecanbon at Cinnabon Same deal here: The full-sized Caramel Pecanbon delivers 1,080 calories, 51 grams of fat, 1,270 milligrams of sodium, and 75 grams of sugar, and there's a mini alternative, says Amer. Healthier option: The Caramel Pecanbon MiniBon Roll is nearly two-fifths the size of the main man, with 450 calories, 22 grams of fat, 390 milligrams of sodium, and 32 grams of sugar. Jeff Greenberg - Getty Images

Buffalo Chicken Mac at Noodles &amp; Company A small of this cheesy order <a href="https://noodles.mymenuhd.com/MyMenu/Nutrition" id="597daf9f-0ff8-356a-a9c6-401b21fe8945"> has </a> 650 calories and 2,050 milligrams of sodium. A regular packs 1,100 calories and 3,180 milligrams of sodium. (Reminder: The USDA says most people shouldnt consume more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.) Healthier option: "If you're craving mac and cheese, go for a small order of the Wisconsin Mac and Cheese and add a side of grilled chicken or sauteed shrimp for the protein boost," says <a href="https://jessicalevinson.com/" id="a5aa4326-6d3b-37e6-a1f5-9bc4c5b133cd"> Jessica Levinson </a> , MS, RDN, CDN, a culinary nutrition expert in Westchester, New York. "The small Wisconsin Mac is less than half the calories [490 calories] of a large Buffalo Chicken Mac, and it has way less sodium [780 milligrams]." RJ Sangosti - Getty Images

Pad Thai at Noodles &amp; Company The Pad Thai is another high-in-calories and high-in-sodium option on the noodle restaurant's menu. A small has 520 calories and 1,010 milligrams of sodium; a regular has 1,040 calories and 2,020 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: "Your best bet when it comes to Asian noodles is a small Spicy Peanut Saute," says Levinson. The dish has 420 calories, and is "the lowest sodium dish in this category [700 milligrams], relatively low in saturated fat [2.5 grams], and is a good source of fiber thanks to all the veggies you'll find in this dish." AAron Ontiveroz - Getty Images

Alfredo MontAmore at Noodles &amp; Company "With a four cheese sauce and parmesan crusted chicken, this dish is definitely not one to get if you're watching your waistline!" says Levinson. A small has 800 calories, 46 grams of fat, and 1,550 milligrams of sodium; a regular has 1,410 calories, 84 grams of fat, and 2,170 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: Opt for a small order of the Penne Rosa (360 calories, 12 grams of fat, 440 milligrams of sodium) or Pesto Cavatappi (370 calories, 15 grams of fat, 440 milligrams of sodium), says Levinson. "Stick with grilled chicken for a protein boost." AAron Ontiveroz - Getty Images

Royal Reese's Blizzard Filled with Peanut Butter at Dairy Queen As far as Dairy Queen treats go, <a href="https://www.dairyqueen.com/us-en/Company/Nutrition/Food-Treats/" id="5062cd46-2853-350c-a5e6-a3a94809f2bd"> Blizzards come with a whole lot of calories and sugar </a> . And this Blizzard has 1,500 calories and 149 grams of sugar in the large. Healthier option: "If you just can't resist a Blizzard, go for a mini," suggests Levinson. This particular mini carries 530 calories and 48 grams of sugar. "The best bet," she adds, "is to go for a classic kids' or small cone with one topping." Before toppings, both chocolate and vanilla kids' cones have 170 calories and 18 grams of sugar. Joe Raedle - Getty Images

Chicken &amp; Waffles Basket at Dairy Queen As far as Dairy Queen meals go, this limited-edition six-piece basket has 1,620 calories, 64 grams of fat, and 3,080 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: The Grilled Chicken Sandwich, says Levinson. It has 390 calories, 15 grams of fat, and 970 milligrams of sodium. "Or if you're really craving the crispy chicken, opt for the Crispy Chicken BLT Salad," she says. While not the best option on the menu [400 calories, 21 grams of fat, 1,070 milligrams of sodium], it's way better than the Chicken &amp; Waffles Basket and will still satisfy the crispy craving!" Roberto Machado Noa - Getty Images

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Melt Wrap at Subway "In general, Subway wraps have at least 100 extra calories and 500 milligrams sodium over a similar sandwich on one of their breads," according to Harris-Pincus. This specific wrap has 1,590 calories andwait for it3,930 milligrams (!!) of sodium. Healthier option: If you're all about a wrap, consider the Veggie Delite Signature Wrap, she says. Before sauce, it has 330 calories and 800 milligrams of sodium. Fairfax Media - Getty Images

Quesarito with Beef at Taco Bell This meaty menu item has 650 calories, 33 grams of fat, and 1,390 milligrams of sodium "thanks to beef, rice, cheese, cheese sauce, and sour cream," says Harris-Pincus. Healthier option: "If you are in the mood for one and the beef and rice are the priority, you can make it Al Fresco, which ditches the cheese, cheese sauce, and sour cream, while adding guacamole and salsa," she explains. It's 230 fewer calories than the original. PAUL J. RICHARDS - Getty Images

Breakfast Crunchwrap with Sausage at Taco Bell "I'm a huge fan of eating a balanced breakfast," says Harris-Pincus, "but the Breakfast Crunchwrap with Sausage is not my idea of a healthy choice." <a href="https://www.tacobell.com/nutrition/info" id="b77c4ff7-5e02-3071-a9bc-21daff0f9128"> See </a> : 690 calories, 45 grams of fat, and 1,210 milligrams of sodium. "It's super high in calories and fat but low in produce and essential nutrients," she says. Healthier option: You can nab two Egg and Cheese Soft Tacos for less than half of those calories: 340, to be exact, along with 18 grams of fat, and 660 milligrams of sodium. "Add some pico de gallo for a bit of veggie freshness," Harris-Pincus suggests. Joshua Blanchard - Getty Images

Chocolate Cookie Crumble Crme Frappuccino at Starbucks If shopping wears you out, you might think about grabbing this Frappuccino. <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/menu/product/957/iced?parent=%2Fdrinks%2Ffrappuccino-blended-beverages%2Fcreme-frappuccino" id="56c2e0a6-bcfb-323e-ab4e-d9d9cc47d18e"> A Grande's got </a> 470 calories and 52 grams of sugar. Healthier option: The <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/menu/product/883/iced?parent=%2Fdrinks%2Fcold-coffees%2Ficed-mochas" id="dd9f988f-fe23-3c95-a599-f4e2b930e71a"> Iced Skinny Mocha </a> , recommends Harris-Pincus. Still cold and refreshing, still chocolatey, this Grande has 120 calories and nine grams of sugar. "That's a huge difference," she says. Richard Levine - Getty Images

Pumpkin Scone at Starbucks Don't be fooled by the word "pumpkin" here. <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/menu/product/873068623/single?parent=%2Ffood%2Fbakery%2Fscones" id="e9ebb44d-16ec-3281-a598-92a6f6d0dd6b"> This baked good </a> contains 500 calories and 46 grams of sugar. Healthier option: "If you are craving a sweet bakery treat and the real deal is what you want, instead of a Pumpkin Scone go for a <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/menu/product/1015/single?parent=%2Ffood%2Fbakery%2Fcakes-and-pies" id="b2de2ea7-6178-3c14-a3af-e1229105ea67"> Chocolate Cake Pop </a> ," Harris-Pincus says. That pop has 160 calories and 18 grams of sugar. "And who doesn't love dessert on a stick?" she adds. Roberto Machado Noa - Getty Images

Hash Brown Scramble Burrito with Sausage at Chick-fil-A This breakfast item clocks in at 710 calories, 46 grams of fat, and 1,440 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: "The Egg White Grill for a high-protein, satisfying breakfast," says <a href="https://marisamoore.com/" id="d2de8e39-d4d0-33be-ae5e-1ccd2d5c1abb"> Marisa Moore </a> , MBA, RDN, LD, an integrative and culinary dietitian in Atlanta. It has 290 calories, eight grams of fat, and 970 milligrams of sodium. MANDEL NGAN - Getty Images

Spicy Deluxe Sandwich with Colby Jack at Chick-fil-A <a href="https://www.chick-fil-a.com/nutrition-allergens" id="b5761e7e-2f9d-34f3-abe5-aec80254d63f"> When it comes to Chick-fil-A sandwiches </a> , this is one of the unhealthiest, at 540 calories, 26 grams of fat, and 1,770 milligrams of sodium. The regular Chick-fil-A Deluxe Sandwich with Colby Jack isnt much healthier, with 530 calories, 26 grams of fat, and 1,510 milligrams of sodium. Healthier option: Get your chicken grilled instead. Its important to remember that you dont have to order exactly whats on a menu board, says Moore. Restaurants are usually happy to help you create a meal that worksjust ask! Boston Globe - Getty Images

The 30 Unhealthiest Orders At The Food Court

They're meant to be shared, says co-founder Pam Weekes.

The second thing you need to know is that youll be totally uninterested in splitting one.

The behemoths are made by hand and baked fresh daily (leftovers are donated), and their little-bit-crunchy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside texture, along with their size, makes them feel like the ultimate splurge.

That's why the iconic cookie's origin story is more than a little surprising.

Weekes and her co-founder, Connie McDonald, met in the late 80s in a swimming pool on Manhattans Upper East Side.

Pam Weekes (left) and Connie McDonald (right) take a bit of their dark chocolate cookies.

There were only four women and, I don't know, 10 or 15 men, says Weekes. And all of the men were doing these <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a19911810/triathlons-for-newbies/" id="e5188e52-edf9-389b-a904-b66057d9144b"> triathlons </a> , which were kind of a new thing back then, and they were really encouraging us to go ahead and do one.

The pair decided to go for it, training together for a Connecticut sprint triathlon (a half-mile of swimming; 12.4 miles of biking; and 3.1 miles of running). They loved it.

A few years of triathlons later, they upgraded to the <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a19929000/shirin-gerami-ironman/" id="04cb678d-9134-35a3-ad71-0c19c91ee8a3"> Ironman </a> 2.4 miles of swimming and 112 miles of biking, followed by a full marathon (26.2 miles)a massive undertaking for which people spend double-digit hours training every week. It was during their long Saturday bike rides that they discussed the idea of teaming up to scratch their entrepreneurial itches, too.

We'd spend the time talking a lot about what we wanted to do with our lives, says Weekes, and we discovered that we both wanted to ultimately have our own businesses.

As they biked 100-plus miles, Weekes, who worked in fashion at the time, and McDonald, who had left her banking job to go to culinary school and was working in the restaurant industry, tossed around different ideas for a company they could buildmaybe one for bike tours or a womens athletic clothing line.

They also ate baked goods. Specifically, they created a recipe together for a , which they chowed down on during calorie-scorching sessions that left them feeling ravenous.

The <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/g20879177/keto-protein-bars/" id="b1b7b0b8-bd55-38b8-a8c2-e4954f4c2945"> energy bar </a> market was not nearly what it is now, says McDonald. So we made the cookies. They're really substantial, so you could just stick one right into the back of your bike shirt and just go off on a ride, and its not going to break apart. It was so much better than anything else that was out there, or thats still out there.

Being athletes and competing made a huge difference in our mental outlookand gave us really great endurance.

The two friends spent years fueling their training sessions with cookies and enjoying them after races. (During races, theyd usually opt for energy chews instead, because its too hard to eat real food when you are racing, Weekes explains.)

The two friends eventually narrowed in on a business concept: wholesale bread baking. Weekes insists that the cookies didnt factor into this decision. It was completely coincidental, she says. Clearly, we both like to bake, cook, and, of course, eat!

After a strong first six months or so, they decided to expand, opening a retail bakery on the Upper West Side in December 1995.

The cookies actually werent part of the bakerys original menu, but McDonald and Weekes started selling them pretty soon after they opened, and then developed three more flavors: , , and .

Gaining notoriety in New York Citys food scene is a challenge, but McDonald and Weekes dove in head-on, applying that same drive and perseverance that they had been implementing in their races. They say that success was the goal, and giving up wasnt an option.

You're [working] 14 hours a day, 15 hours a day, and I'd say, Just put your head down and keep going, says McDonald. And I can't tell you how many times I said that to myself in races, too. I think that being athletes and competing made a huge difference in our mental outlookand gave us really great endurance.

In 1997, that the women produce what may possibly be the largest, most divine chocolate chip cookies in Manhattan. But McDonald says it wasnt until they more than a decade later, in 2008, and beat the celebrity chef in a chocolate chip cookie contest that they felt like their cookies had really taken off.

I think thats when we started realizing that people are recognizing the cookies and thinking of them as maybe the standard by which other cookies are being compared, McDonald says.

The business grew. And grew. And grew. In addition to an online cookie order option, the co-owners now have four shops in New York City and one in the Hamptons. A sixth store is in the works for downtown Manhattan, and a seventh in Williamsburg, Brooklyn will come next. The pair is planning to open their first shop outside of New York, in Washington, DC, late next year.

We are both really driven. And I don\'t think that either one of us would settle for anything less than succeeding.

Despite the chaos that comes with building a new business, exercising is still a huge part of their lives. Weve gotten up at five o'clock almost every day for the last 25 years, and if we're not going to the bakery, were usually going to the pool or gym, says Weekes. While neither woman is currently competing athletically, they both continue to swim and strength train. Weekes is big on <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/yoga/" id="5993f580-7f7e-37e2-a5c6-a045ccac3dd4"> yoga </a> , and McDonald does <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a28401228/cycling-for-weight-loss/" id="40821b56-6068-3f65-ac2a-cf43d5d20896"> indoor cycling </a> .

For the two of them, an active, healthy lifestyle means working out and eating good food, and that includes baked goods. Connie and I are big believers in wholesome, real food, says Weekes, adding that their cookies clock in with fewer than 10 ingredients. Obviously a cookie is a treat, so it's something you want to eat in moderation, but there's nothing unhealthy about it.

In case you were wondering, yes, they do still fuel their workouts with the cookies. Weekes says she eats at least three to four, minimum of the cookies each week. I try not to let myself eat more than half a [cookie a] day, because I do think that they're a treat, she says. McDonald, on the other hand, says Ill have one every once in a while.

Weekes says the two learned a lot about each other while they were training together, and that ensured that they entered their business partnership knowing how they would operate when things got tough. I think that Connie and I are both very competitive, says Weekes. And I think that we are both really driven. And I don't think that either one of us would settle for anything less than succeeding.

Giving up was never an option, adds McDonald. I don't think either one of us has ever dropped out of a race.

Levain Cookies Were Created By Ironman Competitors

If youve never tried one of  s famous cookies, the first thing you need to know about them is that theyre a massive six ounces each (think: bigger than a McDonald's Quarter Pounder).

Levain Bakery's Famous Cookies Were Invented By Ironman Competitors To Fuel Their Training

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Alison Goldman

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