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At times, it seems unavoidable: a trip through the drive-thru at your favorite, or most convenient fast food establishment. With our busy schedules, sometimes fast food is not just the easiest option, but the only option.
The idea of fast food alone may not bring the healthiest images of food to mind. Even though times may call for a quick stop to refuel, it doesn't mean eating out has to ruin your goals for healthy eating.
The most obvious words of advice are choose the salad over the burger, but not all burger lovers are excited about the idea of "going green" every time they're on the run. It's more about navigating those fast food menus with a healthy approach. However, there are common mistakes we make at the drive-thru window that can derail our healthy intentions.
Start with breakfast. Most of us are driven to indulge in a hearty breakfast burrito or a cheese and sausage-filled breakfast sandwich, both loaded with fat and sodium. Instead, try looking for menu items like oatmeal with a fruit or nut topping or something with lean proteins such as egg whites or turkey that will keep you feeling satisfied until lunch.
Now to address the burger. High in fat and packed with calories, this traditional greasy slab of meat between two pieces of white bread is not doing you any favors. Rather than waste hundreds of extra calories on a burger, try a grilled chicken sandwich. If you want to ramp up the health factor, order a sandwich with a wheat bun or get a wrap instead. Eliminating the added sauces will also lower the calorie count.
If you're thinking about ordering a side with your meal, skip the fries. We've all been told how unhealthy our beloved french fries are but try ordering carrot sticks or apple slices. If you just can't seem to resist the fried temptations, order a kid's size to keep your portions in check or better yet, see if the drive-thru is offering baked sweet potato fries.
Next time you find yourself stopping at a fast food restaurant, don't sweat it. Just try these simple substitutions and avoid the dreaded grease and guilt. Jenniffer is a special projects producer who heads up the Your Life Your Health, Zero Fatalities and High 5 initiatives. For questions, feedback or possible story ideas, please email jmichaelson@ksl.com.
