Eating on the Run

Eating on the Run

The main reason it’s recommended to stay away from fast food restaurants is because of their high intake of fat, salt and calories. But, understandably, sometimes you need to eat something quick and easy. Here are some ordering tips and some examples from popular restaurants.

-          Order sandwiches with no mayo or cheese

-          Opt for a side salad or fruit instead of fries or chips

-          Choose baked chips or pretzels vs. chips

-          Order grilled, baked, or broiled vs. breaded, crispy or fried

Food options: McDonald's: Grilled chicken wraps, grilled chicken salads with balsamic vinaigrette dressing, or small hamburger with apples. Wendy’s: small chili or broth based soup, or grilled chicken sandwich no mayo. Subway: 6 inch sub on wheat (6 gram of fat or less menu). KFC: grilled chicken meal 

And don’t forget to replace those high sugary drinks with water or unsweetened tea!

If you are wanting more lower calories suggestions, check out Spark People's Dining Out Guide.
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/sparkdining.asp.

Another tip when eating fast foods or dining out. Check out the menu ahead of time!
Don't always assume that just because it sounds healthy.. that it is!
The Spark People dining out guide can help or you can go to www.CalorieKing.com as well to look up menu items. Many restaurants have their own nutrition information posted as well.
The more informed you are, the better choices you will make!

Kelly Devine Rickert, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN

Registered Dietitian

Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics

Franciscan St. James Health

708-679-2717 (For appointments)