Question of the Week: What are some healthier fast food options?
Whether your mom pulls into Mickey D’s for lunch or your soccer team makes a pit stop at Taco Bell, sometimes fast food is totally unavoidable. Even though these joints are notorious for serving up super-fatty foods, at drive through dinner doesn’t have to be a total nutritional nightmare. We’ve got a few tips for finding better-for-you options when you’re on the run.
Here are few picks from some common pit-stops:
Subway
Getting sammies? Load up on veggies, opt for whole grain bread and skip the mayo.
Before: An Italian sub with cheese. It tastes good, but all that meat is loaded with salt.
After: Ditch all the extra meats and opt for a turkey sandwich. Spice it up with mustard and a slice of cheese. Pile it high with vegetables!
Panda Express
At the mall and dying for Chinese food? Look for brown rice and steamed veggies, and try to stay away from fried or noodle dishes.
Before: Orange Chicken is loaded with fat and calories—with very little nutritious value.
After: Beef & Broccoli gives ya more nutrients (like iron and fiber) and less grease. Be sure to drink plenty of water...the dish still has lotsa sodium.
McDonald’s
These arches are everywhere! But they don’t just serve up burgers, shakes and nuggets. Grilled chicken, salads (without going overboard on the dressing) and small burgers are your best bets.
Before: Even a cheeseburger and fries can weigh in at over 600 calories—crazy! That’s before adding an extra patty, special sauce or soda.
After: The Southwest Chicken Salad (ask for grilled chicken) is a pretty good choice. Just make sure to go easy on the dressing. Gotta have a burger? Order from the kids’ menu!
Taco Bell
Avoid the combos (all those ingredients add up!) and order items one at a time. That way, you won’t feel pressure to finish another taco.
Before: Nachos Bellgrande sounds like a side dish, right? Turns out, this plate o’ chips is one of the heftiest items on the menu.
After: Go for chicken or beef tacos off the Fresco or regular menu. Y-U-M!
3 Tips that Work ANYWHERE!
Order water instead of soda
Go splitsies with your BFF
Asking for no cheese/dressing/sour cream/may makes your sandwich or taco healthier
Blog it out...What are your fave healthy picks at fast food restaurants?
By: Brooke Exler