With a visually appealing box that features an image of bright green broccoli, hearty mushrooms, and protein-rich steak, it’s hard at first glance to understand why Portabella Steak is unhealthy. And it’s fair to say that it has some advantages. The meal only has 190 calories, and while it’s not particularly filling, it may appeal to people looking for a lower-calorie option. Additionally, the Lean Cuisine Steak Portabella only has 10 grams of carbs, which, again, can be helpful for people on a low-carb diet.
However, it’s the sodium content that really raises eyebrows. There are nearly 800 milligrams of sodium in a relatively small amount of food, covering about a third of your recommended daily intake. Sodium is, of course, important for giving food flavor, as well as helping our body and its nervous and muscular systems function properly (according to Harvard School of Public Health). But excessive amounts of sodium can put strain on your cardiovascular system and lead to high blood pressure, with potential consequences like stroke. It’s also worth noting that while this meal bills itself as a “good source of protein,” it provides 14 grams. It’s not a small amount, but you can reasonably expect more in a low-carb meal like this.