Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a chore, even when you’re on the go. Making healthy fast food is possible and can be done with some simple tips and tricks. The key is to make smart choices and to know what ingredients are in the food you’re eating.
Start by looking for healthier options when you visit fast food restaurants. Many places now offer salads, wraps, and other lighter fare that can be just as tasty as the usual burgers and fries.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the ingredients or how something is prepared; many fast food places are happy to provide this information.
If you’re unsure of what’s healthy or not, look for items that are grilled or steamed rather than fried. Fried foods often contain higher amounts of fat and calories than their healthier counterparts. Also, opt for lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish instead of burgers or hot dogs whenever possible.
When ordering sides:
Choose a side salad instead of fries, baked potato instead of mashed potatoes, or fresh fruit instead of ice cream.
When ordering dressings:
Opt for dressings that are light such as olive oil-based vinaigrettes rather than creamy options like ranch or Thousand Island.
When ordering drinks:
Choose water, unsweetened tea, or sparkling water over sugary sodas.
When building your own meal:
Fill up on nutrient-rich vegetables such as spinach, peppers, onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, etc., protein sources such as lean meats like chicken breast or ground turkey breast (make sure it’s cooked thoroughly), whole grains like brown rice or quinoa rather than white rice.
When adding condiments:
Go light on the mayo and heavy on mustard; skip the extra cheese; use salsa in place of ketchup; use avocado in place of butter.
Conclusion:
Making healthy fast food is achievable with some planning ahead and making smart choices when ordering at restaurants. Avoid fried items where possible and opt for grilled proteins with sides like salads or baked potatoes instead of fries. Additionally, watch out for added sugars in condiments and drinks – choose water over soda whenever possible.