“Food on the Run”
Does following a weight loss program on your health happiness journey mean you have to swear off ever eating fast food? The answer? Not necessarily!
An occasional stop for fast food “can” fit into your healthy diet – if you are careful about what you choose to order.
Here are some tips to follow:
Most fast-food restaurants offer several sandwich sizes, so pick the smallest one. Don’t order the burger with two or three patties. These can be 800 calories or more! Instead, choose the regular or even kid-sized hamburger, which has about 250 calories.
Skip the large serving of fries and ask for a small size – this will save you an additional 200 calories.
Many restaurants now offer better side choices. Choose the side salad or baked potato. Add the fruit bowl, or a fruit and yogurt option instead.
Choose an entrée salad with grilled chicken, shrimp or vegetables and ask for the dressing on the side.
Watch out for “High Calorie” salads, such as those with fried chicken strips or other fried toppings. Also skip the extras like cheese and croutons.
Many beverages are also very high in calories. A large, regular soda (30 ounces) has nearly 400 calories. Instead stick to lemon or lime water, unsweetened iced tea, or if soda is a must have – choose diet soda instead.
Skip the shakes and ice cream drinks. A large shake can contain as much as 800 calories!
Want that ice cream cone? It’s o.k.! Ask for a one scooper, not a two or three or four! Moderation is key!
Remember, you don’t have to settle for what comes with your meal or sandwich, you can ask for healthier options and substitutions. Watch your portion sizes – they can be very deceiving!
Memorize these two great guides and you are on your way to making healthier choices when ordering fast food!
See – you don’t have to swear off fast food just yet, just be more aware of what you order and watch the calorie content listed on the menus!