Can Lean Cuisine Products Help With Losing Weight?

Can Lean Cuisine Products Help With Losing Weight?
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Eating Lean Cuisine is not going to cause you to suddenly drop pounds, but in the long run, the frozen meals may help with losing weight. Lean Cuisine's meals are portion-controlled, providing well-balanced nutrients in a variety of options. The ability to have a healthy lunch or dinner quickly and easily can be helpful in sticking to a weight loss diet.

History

In 1981, during the heart of the microwave oven boom, the Lean Cuisine product line was launched by the Stouffer's Corporation. Stouffer's had been making frozen meals since 1954 and was acquired by Nestle in 1973. The company has continued to release new varieties of Lean Cuisine through the years. In 2007, Lean Cuisine teamed with Susan G. Komen for the Cure to introduce a bag to promote women bringing a healthy lunch to work in. The corporation donated money from sale of the designer bags.

Nutrition

Nutritionists work with Lean Cuisine in order to put together meals that are within the serving size guidelines recommended by the Food and Drug Administration. Two servings of vegetables are included in each meal. Lean Cuisine also follows the FDA guidelines to keep their products low fat and low in cholesterol. The company's meals all contain zero grams of trans fat -- a trace amount of partially hydrogenated vegetable oil in some products keep Lean Cuisine from declaring "no trans fat" -- and no preservatives.

Options

Lean Cuisine markets a variety of options for those wishing to control their weight, which range from ethnic meal selections including Asian-Style Pot Stickers and Chicken Enchilada Suiza, to comfort foods like Beef Pot Roast and Macaroni and Cheese. Market Creations, introduced in 2010, are another option and contain fresh vegetables and pasta in a pouch that is steamed. A few breakfast Paninis, as well as sandwiches and pizzas, are also available.

Considerations

Lean Cuisine can help you with losing weight by conveniently providing a well-rounded, low-calorie and low-fat meal. They are sold in the frozen aisle of most stores, costing only a few dollars each. Lean Cuisine entrees can also be prepared in the microwave, providing you with a meal in just a few minutes. The portions, however, are not very large. If you are looking to lose weight, consider adding a salad or additional vegetables as a healthy choice to stay full.

Article reviewed by Veronique Von Tufts Last updated on: Aug 11, 2011

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