Want Healthy Fast Food?
Even though I’m not a fan of fast food, it happens. I get it.
And isn’t it interesting how many fast-food chains are offering healthy foods today? Well, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Even the so-called “healthy” foods at chains like Taco Bell, Burger King and McDonald’s aren’t as good as they’re cracked up to be…
Even though I’m not a fan of fast food, it happens. I get it.
And isn’t it interesting how many fast-food chains are offering healthy foods today? Well, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Even the so-called “healthy” foods at chains like Taco Bell, Burger King and McDonald’s aren’t as good as they’re cracked up to be…
What do I mean exactly? Sure, McDonald’s may have a few healthy alternatives to the fatty Big Mac, like salads, chicken sandwiches, yogurt with berries and so on, but their salads are full of preservatives and topped with chicken full of hormones and antibiotics. I don’t care if it’s 100 percent beef; it’s certainly not grass-fed.
On top of that, almost every item on McDonald’s menu has high fructose corn syrup and soy … from the buns and their sauces to their seasonings – not to mention a whole bunch of other stuff you can’t even pronounce. Can you say “no thanks”?
I wouldn’t even be so concerned with the calories – because that’s not what you really have to be watching out for. But the ingredients… I’m not trying to pick on McDonald’s necessarily, but I encourage you to research the ingredients in your favorite fast food place before you indulge. You can find most restaurant menus on their websites today. Most have the information you’re seeking. If they don’t, I’d kick them to the curb.
But you don’t have to give up completely on fast food restaurants. There are healthy choices out there for busy people on the go. I’m going to share a few options that actually pack a healthy punch. Yes, they’re out there – all you have to do is look!
Chipotle: Chipotle is committed to using meat from naturally raised animals without the use of antibiotics and hormones. One hundred percent of their pork and chicken and 85 percent of their beef is naturally raised. They also serve local, organic produce whenever possible. So at least you won’t find those bad boys in your burrito. I also love their “Food with Integrity” philosophy and the food’s pretty tasty, too. Check out the shredded naturally raised beef with guacamole. Mmmm – delicioso! You can find out more about Chipotle right here.
Pollo Tropical: Get this – they use fresh never frozen chicken that is antibiotic and hormone-free, and they also serve whole and natural foods, like rice and beans (my childhood favorite). Although now I know that beans are where the nutrition is at! I wish they were all over the states, but they’re mainly located in Florida, New Jersey and a few other tropical islands. Hmm … maybe you could be the owner of a franchise where you live? Check them out online here.
Whole Foods: I could live here! Ha! Love it … They have all you could hope for. Whole Foods offers pre-cooked foods and prepared salads, and even fresh sashimi and sushi with brown rice instead of white. As a word of caution, just watch out for the high soy content in many of their prepared food choices. I’d recommend checking out their salad, veggie and protein options to keep your metabolism pumping and give you energy all day long. And remember to try a Kombucha while you’re there! Visit Whole Foods for more about their offerings.
Grocery Store: Why not drive straight past all of the fast-food chains on the strip and swing by the grocery store instead? There you can choose from quite a few healthy picks, like organic fruit, yogurt, nuts and Lara Bars, to help you make it through your next meeting in one piece. Better yet, if there’s a nutrition or health-food store near you, make sure to stock up on healthy snacks to keep your energy levels high throughout the day.
The point is to keep your eyes open for the many healthy alternatives around you. Who knows? There may be a smoothie shop near you selling protein-rich shakes to curb your cravings.
But try to be prepared at home so you won’t be tempted for fast food all the time. Keep your fridge and pantry stocked with healthy items, and when you see yourself running out, go get some more.
Would you wait until your car’s gas tank was completely empty and risk having to deal with the lost time and stress of getting stranded, or would you rather fill up your tank first to stop any problems before they start? I thought so.
My challenge to you is to check out one of the healthy food choices above the next time that you’re pressed for time. Happy eating!
Lots of Peace, Love, Energy and Happiness!
