Can Fast Food be Nutritious?

Just how common is fast food in America? There are more than 500,000 fast food places in the world. Ninety-six percent of kids in school could recognize an image of Ronald McDonald, the face of McDonalds. The only recognizable figure that ranked higher was Santa Claus. To top it off, Americans spend nearly $100 billion on fast food every year.

Unhealthy Fast Food

Most people don’t consider fast food as their healthiest option. While you can eat a well-balanced, nutritious meal at a fast food restaurant, the unhealthy options are more common. You can easily eat all of the calories they need for the entire day in one sitting at a fast food restaurant.

Eating fattening fast food on occasion is not a problem. However, if you are eating at fast food restaurants more than once a week, consider ordering some healthier options that are more nutritional. Check out these fast food comparisons. You might be surprised at what you find!

Nutritious Fast Food

Increasingly, fast food restaurants offer healthier options and new menu items. You can also customize your order to be healthy for you. To cut down on the calories and extra fat in many fast food options, try some of the tips listed below.

Don’t order the biggest sizes. While it may seem like a bargain to super-size your order, it is no bargain for your health. The largest sizes have the most fat, calories, sugar and sodium, and you will probably be just as satisfied with a smaller portion.

Take the sugar out of your drink. Sugar soda is full of sugar and calories, but it does not fill you up. It is important to stay hydrated, but make a smarter choice and select skim or low-fat milk, fruit juice, diet soda or water.

Go easy on the condiments. Sauces such as mayonnaise, tartar sauce, some spreads or salad dressing can add loads of extra fat and calories where you might not need them, as can cheese, sour cream, guacamole, gravy and "special" sauces. Order a sandwich without the condiments, or ask for them on the side so you can add your own. Most places give you more salad dressing than you need, so add it yourself and don’t use the whole packet. Chose low-fat or reduced fat options when possible. Salads are a healthy option, especially with a healthier dressing.

Stay away from fried foods. Generally, fried foods are not the best choice. Choose items that are labeled as grilled or baked.

Go for the kids menu. The portions are smaller, and you can usually make substitutions. Another option is to bring half of what you order home to eat later instead of all in one sitting.

Choose from the items labeled as "healthy" or "light." Most places now offer special sections on their menu.

Fast food does not have to be bad for you. By making smart choices, eating fast food restaurants can be healthy.