The Best Fast Food Choices from your Favorite Places

In today's fast-paced world, grabbing a quick meal at a fast food restaurant is often a convenient option. However, many people worry about how to stay on track with their nutrition goals while dining out. The good news is that with a little knowledge and planning, it is possible to make healthier choices even at common fast food chains.

Here are some tips and suggestions for making smarter choices when eating fast food:

McDonald's:

- Grilled Chicken Sandwich (without mayo): opt for grilled chicken over fried options to cut down on calories and saturated fat.

- Side Salad with a low-fat dressing: Adding a side salad can help increase your vegetable intake and provide extra nutrients.

- Fruit & Maple Oatmeal: A wholesome breakfast option that is filling and lower in added sugars compared to other breakfast items.

Subway:

- Veggie Delite Salad with turkey or chicken breast: Load up on veggies and lean protein for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

- 6-inch Turkey Breast or Oven Roasted Chicken sandwich on whole wheat bread: Choose whole grain options and pile on the veggies for added fiber and nutrients.

Chipotle:

- Salad bowl with lean protein, brown rice, black beans, fajita veggies, salsa, and guacamole: Customize your bowl with nutrient-dense ingredients for a balanced meal.

- Burrito bowl with similar ingredients (skip the tortilla and cheese): Skipping extras like tortillas and cheese can help reduce calories and saturated fat.

Panera Bread:

- Half BBQ Chicken Salad: A delicious and satisfying option that is lower in calories compared to some other menu items.

- Half Turkey Avocado BLT Sandwich on whole grain bread: Opt for whole grains and lean proteins to boost your meal's nutritional value.

Starbucks:

- Spinach, Feta, & Cage-Free Egg White Breakfast Wrap: A protein-rich and flavorful option for a quick and nutritious breakfast.

- Protein Bistro Box: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this box is a great choice for a balanced snack or meal.

Taco Bell:

- Fresco Soft Tacos (chicken or steak): Fresco style swaps out high-calorie toppings for fresh pico de gallo, reducing overall calories.

- Power Menu Bowl (chicken): A protein-packed bowl with fresh ingredients for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Chick-fil-A:

- Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Choose grilled over fried options for a lighter meal.

- Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap: A flavorful wrap filled with grilled chicken and veggies for a satisfying meal.

- Side Salad with Light Italian Dressing: Adding a side salad can help increase your vegetable intake and provide extra nutrients.

- Grilled Nuggets with Fruit: Adding fruit for micronutrients, a sweet treat, and overall satisfying snack.

When making healthier choices at fast food restaurants, consider customizing your order to suit your preferences and nutritional needs. Opt for grilled proteins, plenty of vegetables, whole grains, and lighter dressings or sauces. Remember that portion control is key, so be mindful of serving sizes and choose water or unsweetened beverages over sugary drinks.

By making informed choices and being mindful of your selections, you can enjoy a quick meal on the go without compromising your nutrition goals. With a little planning and awareness, eating out at fast food chains can be a part of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.