Fast Food

Fast Food

Fast, Convenient Food in the US

Hitting the drive-thru for breakfast, lunch, or dinner seems convenient for you and your family, but it comes with consequences. Fast food meals have higher concentrations of fat, sugars, and calories compared to preparing a meal at home. Fast food isn't always bad; it's all about consuming in moderation. See the chart below for healthier swaps at popular fast food restaurants. 

This

Not That

Chick fil a:

Grilled Nuggets (8): 130 calories, 6 g fat, 610 mg sodium, 5 g carbs, 13 g protein ($4.99)

Spicy Chicken Sandwich: 460 calories, 19g fat, 1600 mg sodium, 45g carbs, 28g protein ($4.49)

Wendy’s

Junior Hamburger: 250 calories, 11 g fat, 420 mg sodium, 25 g carbs, 13 g protein ($1.09) 

Baconator: 960 calories, 66g fat, 1540mg sodium, 36g, carbs, 57g protein ($6.49)

Chipotle

Steak Soft Tacos (3): 560 calories, 15.5 g fat, 1,570 mg sodium, 68 g carbs, 36 g protein ($9.50) 

Steak Salad: 1,305 calories, 76.5 g fat, 2,880 mg sodium, 117 g carbs, 47 g protein ($9.50)

Dunkin

Wake up wrap (egg & cheese): 190 calories, 11 g fat, 400 mg sodium, 13 g carbs, 8g protein ($1.99)

Sausage, Egg & Cheese on croissant: 710 calories, 52 g fat, 1120 mg sodium, 42g carbs, 21g protein ($3.69)

McDonalds

Classic Cheeseburger: 300 calories, 12 g fat, 400 mg sodium, 13 g carbs, 8g protein ($2.19)

Double Quarter Pounder w/ Cheese: 750 calories, 44g fat, 1210mg sodium, 42g carbs, 47g protein  ($7.99)

Taco Bell

Chick Soft Taco Fresco Style: 150 calories, 6 g fat, 470 mg sodium, 16 g carbs, 10g protein ($2.19)

Beef Fiesta Taco Salad: 420 calories, 20g fat, 920 mg sodium, 41g carbs, 19g protein ($5.59)

 

Tips

  • Avoid fried toppings. Add raw vegetables. 
  • Opt for healthier sides such as salad or fruit instead of fries. 
  • Limit sauce use. Each sauce adds 60-120 calories. 
  • Choose whole grain or lettuce buns when available. 
  • Order on mobile apps if possible. You can see the nutritional info breakdown. 
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