Healthy Fast Food? 5 Tips for Making Smart Choices

Sounds too good to be true, right? Fast-food that is healthy?

 

Most fast-food has a reputation for being high in saturated fat, sodium, and calories, while having next to zero healthy ingredients. 

 

However, things are starting to change. Some fast-food restaurants are making a real effort to improve their menus and cater to the new demand for healthier options.

 

Many restaurants now offer low-fat options, lower calorie menus and some fresh ingredients. 

 

But that doesn’t always make it your best choice!

 

So how do you stay healthy if you need to eat a fast meal?

 

Well, you must…

- Be prepared

- Be informed

- And make smart choices

…To keep from sabotaging your goals.

 

Here are a few tips to help you out the next time you're on-the-go!

 

Tip #1 - Stay prepared with protein bars or nutrition shakes

My best suggestion if you need a healthy fast-food option is to use a healthy protein bar or nutrition shake.

 

For example, my favorite meal replacement shake contains 17g. of protein, 21 vitamins and minerals, 5 grams of fiber and is very low in carbs.

 

It’s easy to shake up and tastes delicious!

 

So it’s a perfect way to be prepared at any time hunger strikes!

 

Plus, it comes in a variety of flavors.

 

Click here to get a 3 day trial pack with cookies and cream shakes :)

 

Or keep reading for more tips!

Tip #2 - Choose your preparation methods wisely

For meats I suggest grilled, broiled, or baked. And go raw or steam your veggies. 

 

If you're at a restaurant you’ll want to ask about the preparation methods so you can make an informed decision. And if you need to special order your food to be prepared in a healthier manner then don’t hesitate to do that.

 

Tip #3 - Beware of hidden calories

A salad may seem like a lower calorie option, but when you include the fried toppings, high-fat dressing, and a handful of cheese the calories really add up. 

 

A chicken sandwich may seem perfect until you find out the bun is toasted in butter or the chicken has a “special sauce” that is loaded with calories.

 

Did you know the average meal at a fast-food joint can contain more than 1,000 calories!? It's okay to grab a snack if you're hungry, but be cautious.

Simple, fresh ingredients are best. Ask for dressings and toppings on the side so you can monitor how much is added. 

 

Tip #4 - Beware of portion sizes

A good rule of thumb when eating out is to eat until you're about 80% full. 

 

It seems like you're getting more for your money with all the extra bread, chips and appetizers, but that doesn’t help your waistline if you have a health goal.

 

Enjoy your dinner out, but don’t overdo it.

 

Tip #5 - Avoid calorie containing drinks

Calories in sodas and sweetened beverages add up quickly. Try unsweetened tea or lemon water instead. 

 

1 bottle equals 1 serving? Not always! Labels can be sneaky. Turn that packaging around and see how many servings are in there! That clever marketing on the front of the label might be for just 1 serving instead of the 2-4 servings that sometimes come in 1 package!