When you think of fast food, the first thing that comes to mind is probably greasy burgers, salty fries, and sugary drinks.
However, not all fast food is unhealthy! In fact, many fast food chains offer healthy options that are low in calories, fat, and sodium, and high in protein, fiber, and nutrients. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best healthy fast food options that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Subway
Subway is known for its sandwiches, but did you know that you can customize your sandwich to make it healthier? Start by choosing the right bread.
Whole wheat bread is a great choice because it’s high in fiber and protein, which will keep you feeling full for longer. Next, add plenty of veggies, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, which are low in calories and packed with nutrients. Avoid high-fat sauces like mayo and ranch, and opt for healthier options like mustard or vinegar.
Finally, choose a lean protein source, such as turkey, chicken, or roast beef.
Chipotle
Chipotle is a Mexican fast food chain that offers a variety of healthy options. Start by choosing a bowl instead of a burrito, which will save you calories and carbs. Next, choose brown rice instead of white rice, which is higher in fiber and nutrients.
Add plenty of veggies, such as lettuce, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. For protein, choose chicken or beef, and skip the fattier options like steak or chorizo. Finally, top your bowl with a healthy fat source, such as avocado or guacamole, which is high in healthy monounsaturated fats.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread is a popular fast-casual chain that offers a variety of healthy options. Start with the “You Pick Two” menu, which allows you to choose two half portions of soups, salads, or sandwiches.
Opt for a salad, such as the Greek salad or the Caesar salad, which are low in calories and high in nutrients. For a sandwich, choose the low-fat turkey breast or the Mediterranean veggie sandwich, which are packed with veggies and lean protein. Avoid high-fat soups like the cheddar broccoli, and opt for a low-fat soup like the black bean or the vegetable soup.
Taco Bell
Surprisingly, Taco Bell offers several healthy options that are low in calories and high in protein. Start with the “Fresco Style” menu, which replaces high-fat sauces and cheese with fresh pico de gallo.
Choose a crunchy taco with chicken or beef, or a burrito with beans and rice. Avoid the high-fat menu items like the chalupa or the quesarito, which are packed with calories and saturated fat.
Mcdonald’s
While Mcdonald’s is not known for its healthy options, there are a few items on the menu that you can enjoy guilt-free. Start with the side salad, which is low in calories and packed with veggies.
For your main course, choose the grilled chicken sandwich or the filet-o-fish sandwich, which are both lower in calories and fat than the burgers. Skip the fries and soda, which are high in calories and sodium, and opt for a side of fruit and a bottle of water instead.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is another fast food chain that offers healthy options. Start with the “Right Size, Right Price” menu, which offers smaller portion sizes at lower prices.
Choose a side salad or a baked potato, which are both low in calories and high in nutrients. For your main course, choose the grilled chicken wrap or the grilled chicken sandwich, which are both lower in calories and fat than the burgers. Avoid the high-calorie menu items like the Baconator or the Frosty.
Starbucks
Starbucks is not just for coffee! The chain offers a variety of healthy food options, such as the turkey and spinach egg white sandwich or the spinach and feta egg white wrap.
For a snack, choose the fruit cup or the protein bistro box, which comes with hard-boiled eggs, cheese, fruit, and veggies. Avoid the high-calorie menu items like the Frappuccinos and the pastries, which are packed with sugar and fat.
Dunkin’ Donuts
Finally, Dunkin’ Donuts offers several healthy options that you can enjoy with your coffee. Choose the egg white veggie flatbread sandwich or the turkey sausage wake-up wrap, which are both low in calories and high in protein.
For a snack, choose the fruit cup or the yogurt and blueberry parfait, which are both low in calories and high in nutrients. Avoid the high-calorie menu items like the donuts and the muffins, which are packed with sugar and fat.
Conclusion
Fast food doesn’t have to be unhealthy! By making the right choices, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal on the go. Choose whole wheat bread, plenty of veggies, lean protein, and healthy fat sources.
Avoid high-fat sauces and menu items that are packed with calories and saturated fat. By following these tips, you can enjoy your favorite fast food chains without compromising your health.