Even if you are on a “diet” or watching your waistline, you are probably likely at some point make a visit to the crazy convenient, deliciousness of fast food. Maybe your day is too busy to cook or maybe you’re traveling. Perhaps cravings for something crunchy or salty overpowered you. Maybe your boss, child or spouse worked your last nerve to the point where you just require a little comfort food. Any way you spin it, you may turn to fast food, and if you do, I want to help you make the best decision possible for your health and fitness. Fortunately, there is a way to do fast food a bit healthier!
Chipotle – Chipotle is one of my favorite sources for fast food. But just like anything else, it can also be the devil of consuming too many calories in one meal. Those gigantic burritos and chips with guac call to you in your car. While you may have to skip the burrito (and the chips) to stay on track, you can still say yes to Chipotle. To create a healthy choice, choose a bowl over a burrito. Fill that bowl with lettuce, black beans, chicken, fajita veggies, a small amount of rice and choose from a dollop sour cream, a small amount of cheese or a reasonable portion of guacamole. There are all fats, so choosing all three will put the calories over the top. Choose to do the latter, and you still have a whole lot of flavor for minimal calories: roughly Cal: 445, fat: 17.5, protein 43, carbs 30.
Chick-fil-A – Craving more chicken? Go for it! No, I’m not suggesting you dive into a traditional Chick-fil-A fried sandwich with waffle fries, but you can say yes to a grilled chicken cool wrap. This simple swap will cost you only 360 calories, 13 grams of fat, 30 carbs and 40 grams of protein, but is still packed with major flavor!
Wendy’s – If you love cheeseburgers like me, choosing a smaller size is always the way to go when watching your waistline. Unlike many burger choices that pack a crazy 900-1000 calories, Wendy’s Jr. cheeseburger is only 280 calories with 13 fat grams, 26 carbs and 16 grams of protein. It still has all the taste of a traditional Wendy’s burger, but without all the post-meal guilt. Pair it with a salad for a more filling meal.
KFC – There is nothing that says comfort food like a big ole’ bucket of fried chicken. However, that fried up fabulousness will also make you pack on the pounds. Instead, choose the Kentucky grilled chicken breast. It’s still prepared with all the same spices and flavor has the fried chicken, but has only 210 calories, 7 grams of fat, 38 grams of protein and zero carbs. Add in a bowl of green beans and it’s just an additional 25 calories, 4 carbs, 1 gram of protein and zero fat!
Taco Bell – Whether you’re popping in for lunch or on your way to “fourth meal” you can say yes to Taco Bell if you make the right selection. Avoid the overstuffed burritos and nachos that average 600-800 calories, and instead pick the cool ranch Doritos locos taco. Yep, that’s right – a taco! These little babies come in at just 170 calories, 10 grams of fat, 13 carbs and 8 grams of protein. With those macros, you could even splurge and have two or even three depending on your goals if your taste buds desire!
So, the next time you’re in a spot that requires a little fast food, remember – there is a way to keep it healthy and flavorful! For more tips and tricks to keep you on plan, click here.
