So many of us have become addicted to fast food. We know it’s unhealthy and generally not a great choice. But sometimes it may be the only choice when we are traveling or in a rush.
So given the options available at most fast food places how do you make it a healthier food choice? Here are some ways I have found that work in a pinch, once in a while.
5 Ways to Make Fast Food Healthier in a Pinch
1. Go Vegetarian
Vegetarian choices are usually available in some form or another. Whether it is a salad with low fat or no dressing, or a veggie burger with no bun, these are better than a processed meat. I usually carry a bottle of La Victoria Taco Sauce in my car when I know I will be traveling often. A delicious salad dressing!
2. Go Without Sauce
Skipping the sauce or mayo is going to save you a ton of calories right off the top. A lot of the sugar, calories and unhealthy features come from sauce. If you ask for your food without sauce, you’ll be making a healthier option right away. You can either swap the sauce to a healthier one, bring your own along, or just get used to eating without it.
3. Skip the Sides
You don’t always need to get sides with your fast food. Many of us order fries out of habit or because it comes as part of a deal. In most cases, we wouldn’t be hungry any more after just eating the main part of the meal. Save the calories and the fat by ditching the fries.
4. Skip the Bun
I always end up eating my grilled chicken or burger without the bun. It’s a bit messy, but so worth it to not have those additional empty calories. Plus it makes it easier to stick to low-carb choices that way.
5. Choose a Smaller Portion
If you normally order a large meal, go for a child’s meal that offers just a regular sandwich instead of a full size large meal. Not only will you reduce the amount of calories and salt that you’re consuming, but you can save money too! Or just order 2 small burgers and stack the meat and only eat 1 half of one bun to keep it all together. You won’t miss the large size.
Some of my favorites and go to Fast Food Meals are:
- Double Tostada – Taco Bell
- Veggie wrap Big Carl with no sauce – Carl’s Jr.
- Veggie wrap Double Double – In and Out burger
- Grilled Chicken – El Pollo Loco
- Grilled Chicken Whopper – Burger King with no bun (they don’t do veggie wrap very well)
- Single with Cheese, no bun – Wendy’s
These tips can help you rethink some of the fast food options when you are on the road. How have you managed eating out? What are your go-to choices?
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Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.