Let these guidelines take the struggle out of deciding what to eat when dining out (Image: www.nature-beauties.com)
One of the major reasons as to why diets fail is because people view them as temporary adjustments rather than permanent changes. Everyone wants to go out with their friends, have a bite to eat, and not cheat on their diet. Just because you’re trying to eat healthier doesn’t mean you must deny yourself of the foods that you once enjoyed prior to your diet. We all get stuck on the road or at the mall and need to grab something quick to eat. Fast food restaurants have become increasingly aware of the nation’s health concerns and have offered a variety of products to satisfy and include the health-conscious.
- McDonald’s: The classic arches are everywhere, making it one of the most popular fast food joints in the world. If you were to stop at a McDonald’s restaurant for lunch or dinner, your best bet is to order the Classic Hamburger, as it only contains 250 calories, 8 grams of fat, and 12 grams of protein. McDonald’s also has some healthier options such as the Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad; the salad has 350 calories, 17 grams of fat and 26 grams of protein.
- Wendy’s: Wendy’s has more variety of healthier food options on their menu. Most people are aware of the salad options, but you are better off ordering the Grilled Chicken Breast on a bun. The Ultimate Chicken Grill Breast and bun have 230 calories and only 2.5 grams of fat.
- Subway: Subway is the most diet-friendly fast food chain, but you have to be careful not to add extra calories via the sauces and condiments. Choosing a 6 inch Grilled Chicken Sub on whole wheat bread topped with veggies weighs in at 330 calories, and has a whopping 24 grams of protein!
- Burger King: Burger King will definitely test your dietary willpower. Their Triple Whopper with Cheese has 1240 calories alone! If you must eat at Burger King, avoid the foods that have the words double or triple in the name! The most diet-friendly food on their menu is the Classic Hamburger. Again, be careful when applying the condiments and toppings because that will increase the total calorie count of the meal. The Classic Burger has 260 calories and 11 grams of fat. Another option at Burger King would be the Specialty Chicken Sandwich; it has 460 calories but includes 25 grams of protein. Don’t forget to ask the cashier/server to hold the mayo when ordering your sandwich.
- KFC: Fried chicken is definitely not diet-friendly! If you must go there, the Chicken Little Sandwich has 310 calories, 18 grams of fat, and 14 grams of protein.
While these tips will help you choose healthier while eating at fast food establishments, it is not recommended that you eat these meals on a daily basis. These meals contain high amounts of fat, sodium, and preservatives. Notice that all of the suggestions are solely the sandwiches and does not include toppings, sides, or drinks. You will most likely still be hungry after one of these meals and a home cooked meal would have satisfied your hunger much better. However, everyone needs to splurge once in a while, so try to indulge responsibly!
