Fast food options can be a challenge for those looking to lose fat, and while they're not the ideal choice, sometimes circumstances force you to turn to them. The key is to make smart, strategic choices to minimize the impact on your goals. Here's a handy guide to staying in control even at these locations.
Choose lean proteins and avoid fried foods
At most fast food outlets, you will find grilled options (grilled) or baked, which are preferable to fried. Look for lean proteins such as unbreaded chicken or fish.
Examples of what to ask for:
Chick-fil-A: Grilled Chicken Sandwich or Grilled Nuggets (with side salad instead of fries).
McDonald's: Grilled McChicken (if available) or a plain burger without cheese.
Subway: Turkey breast sandwich on whole wheat bread, loaded with vegetables, and without heavy dressings.
Swap bread for lighter options
In many establishments you can replace the bread with lettuce (lettuce wrap) or order your protein straight from the bowl. This significantly reduces carbs and calories.
Examples of what to ask for:
Carl's Jr. or In-N-Out: Lettuce Wrapped Burger (Lettuce Wrap).
Chipotle: A Burrito Bowl with chicken, vegetables, beans, and light salsa. Omit the cheese, sour cream, and rice.
Choose low-calorie accompaniments
French fries and onion rings are classic side dishes, but they tend to be calorie bombs. Look for alternatives like salads or fresh fruit, when available.
Examples of what to ask for:
Chick-fil-A: Side salad or a serving of fresh fruit.
McDonald's: A simple salad instead of French fries.
Taco Bell: Ask for extra vegetables instead of chips.
Control the portions
Portions at fast food establishments are usually generous. Consider ordering a smaller size or sharing a dish. You can also save half for a later meal.
Examples of what to ask for:
Burger King: Plain Cheeseburger (no extras) instead of double or triple options.
Popeyes: A 3-pack of grilled chicken strips (unbreaded) instead of the large combo.
Be careful with drinks
Sugary drinks can add hundreds of calories to your meal without you even realizing it. Opt for calorie-free alternatives.
Examples of what to ask for:
Water, sparkling water or unsweetened tea anywhere.
Starbucks: Black coffee or an unsweetened Cold Brew, avoiding drinks with syrups and whipped cream.
Dunkin': Latte with skim milk and no syrups.
Check the sauces and dressings
Asking for sauces on the side gives you control over how much you use. Skip the creamy ones (like ranch or mayo) and opt for lighter options like vinaigrette or pico de gallo.
Examples of what to ask for:
Chick-fil-A: BBQ Sauce or Honey Mustard (use half the packet to reduce calories).
Taco Bell: Fresh salsa instead of cheese or sour cream.
Check the nutritional information
Many establishments publish the calories of their products. Use this information to make better decisions. Look for options that fit your needs without compromising your progress.
Useful tools:
McDonald's, Wendy's and Chipotle all have nutritional calculators in their apps.
Check the menus online before arriving at the restaurant.
Practical examples of healthy orders
McDonald's
Light option: Plain burger without cheese + small salad with low-fat dressing + water.
Avoid: Big Mac, large fries and milkshakes.
Chick-fil-A
Light option: Grilled Nuggets (8 pieces) + small salad with dressing on the side + unsweetened tea.
Avoid: Original Chicken Sandwich (fried) and large combos.
Taco Bell
Light option: Soft tacos with chicken + extra pico de gallo + fresh salsa (no cheese or sour cream).
Avoid: Large nachos or burritos with cheese and sour cream.
Chipotle
Light option: Burrito Bowl with chicken, beans, vegetables and light sauce (without rice or cheese).
Avoid: Large burrito or add-ons like sour cream, extra cheese, or chips.
Subway
Light option: Salad with turkey breast and all the vegetables, dressed with vinegar and a touch of olive oil.
Avoid: Sandwiches with white bread, melted cheese or dressings such as mayonnaise.
Conclusion
Fast food establishments aren't ideal, but these strategies can help limit the impact on your goals. Prioritize lean proteins, cut carbs and fats, and control portions. Remember, meal planning is always best, but when there's no alternative, these decisions will keep you moving forward without major setbacks.