Quickly food: Recommendations for picking out much healthier options

These 5 guidelines can help you make clever meal choices when heading to a fast-food restaurant.

By Mayo Clinic Workers

Does next a pounds-reduction or healthier diet program signify you need to swear off fast food? Not always.

An occasional end for fast food can in shape into a healthier diet program — if you’re mindful about what you purchase. Take into account these guidelines.

Preserve part dimensions tiny

If the fast-food restaurant offers several sandwich dimensions, pick the smallest. Bypass hamburgers with two or 3 patties, which can have extra than 900 calories.

As a substitute, pick a standard- or kid’s-sized hamburger, which has about 250 calories.

Also, purchase the tiny serving of french fries alternatively of the massive. This change on your own can save 200 calories or extra.

Decide on much healthier aspect dishes

Just take advantage of the healthier aspect dishes offered at numerous fast-food places to eat. For example, alternatively of french fries pick a aspect salad with minimal-extra fat dressing or a baked potato. Or add a fruit bowl or a fruit and yogurt solution to your meal.

Other healthier choices incorporate apple or orange slices, corn on the cob, steamed rice, baked potato chips or a broth-dependent soup.

Go environmentally friendly

Decide on an entree salad with greens and grilled chicken or shrimp. Decide on a dressing you like but be cautious with the amount. Use 50 percent the deal or keep the salad dressing on the aspect to manage the selection of calories from added extra fat and other unwanted substances, such as added salt and sugar.

Look at out for substantial-calorie salads, such as people with deep-fried shells or people topped with breaded chicken or other fried toppings. Also skip extras, such as cheese and croutons, which quickly increase your calorie rely.

Choose for grilled items

Fried and breaded meals, such as crispy chicken sandwiches and breaded fish fillets, are substantial in extra fat and calories. Choose grilled or roasted entrees — such as chicken breast or lean roast beef.

Look at what you drink

Many drinks are substantial in calories. For example, a massive standard soda, which is 32 ounces (960 milliliters), can have as numerous as 400 calories. As a substitute, purchase diet program soda, water, unsweetened iced tea, glowing water or mineral water.

Also, skip the shakes and other ice cream beverages. A massive shake can have extra than 650 calories.

Have it your way

Bear in mind, you never have to settle for what comes with your sandwich or meal — not even at fast-food places to eat. Check with for much healthier options and substitutions. And keep your eye on part measurement.