Dieting. In the modern definition of the word, I absolutely don’t believe in dieting. I don’t believe, personally, in subjecting myself to any dieting lifestyles (like keto, paleo, etc). I also don’t believe in heavily restricting myself. I’m not a dietary expert by any means, but I do have an understanding of myself. I have a limited number of days on this Earth, and in those days, I will not be restricting myself from enjoying life. And that also means, from enjoying food. But, I do believe in balance and moderation. There have been points of my life where I’ve had periods of overeating and too much unhealthy eating. That’s not what I’m aspiring for. But, if I’m craving McDonald’s, I’m not going to say no and force-feed myself vegetables. No food is bad, only a lack of balance can be bad. Because of this, I’ve been on the hunt for healthy fast food options for days when I want to eat out but want to keep a healthy balance.
McDonald’s
Fruit & Maple Oatmeal
I know, I know, a McGriddle hits. And I’m not saying you can’t get one, please do! And if you’re getting one, get eggs! McDonald’s uses real eggs, and they are packed with protein! But, I’m actually obsessed with the fruit and maple oatmeal from McDonald’s. I ordered it one day and it is so GOOD. It’s honestly one of the best oatmeals I’ve ever ordered from a restaurant. I promise I wouldn’t recommend you eat something that isn’t good.
Hamburger
Honestly, a little McDonald’s hamburger isn’t too bad for you. I know that when I’m craving McDonald’s, it’s one of these little guys. They actually have 12g of protein, too!
Salads
Obviously, you can go for a salad, but did you really come to McDonald’s for a salad? Either way, these are good for you and great options on the menu!
Fruit & Yogurt Parfait
I’m pretty obsessed with these! I actually didn’t know they had anything like that until recently, and couldn’t stop ordering them since. Instead of french fries (which I’m not really a fan of in the first place, oops), I always get a fruit and yogurt parfait as a side.
Wendy’s
Baked Potato
Okay, so maybe I wrote this entire article so I could talk about Wendy’s baked potatoes… so what? They are incredible. This is one of the only fast-food restaurants I’ve seen that offers them and I’m obsessed. Once again, switch out the fries for a baked potato and you are getting so much fiber, potassium and vitamins.
Salads
Ok, I know you said you probably don’t go to McDonald’s for a salad, but you might go to Wendy’s specifically for one! Wendy’s salads are to die for! They are SO good! The berry burst chicken salad and chicken apple pecan salads are my favorites!
Hamburger
Once again, much like McDonald’s, little simple hamburgers are great options if you are craving some meat! They have a ton of protein and will fill you up!
Junior Frosty’s
Have a sweet tooth? Most fast-food restaurants have pretty extensive desserts, but the Wendy’s junior Frosty is so tiny and delicious! If you’re looking for a tiny little dessert to carve your craving, this is it!
Chili
Surprise, surprise! Apparently, Wendy’s Chili is actually pretty good for you! If you get a large, it’s only 340 calories and packed with fiber and protein!
Chick-Fil-A
Grilled Nuggets
These are AMAZING! Sometimes, I specifically crave the grilled nuggets. They are so juicy and taste incredible, unlike other grilled chicken options at fast-food restaurants. Personally, grilled chicken usually tastes really dry to me, but this could not be any different.
Salads
Much like Wendy’s, Chick-Fil-A has some incredible salad options that are sooooo good. My favorite is the market salad.
Greek Yogurt Parfait
Like the yogurt parfait at McDonald’s, I love switching out my side for one of these. You can also decide if you want granola or cookie crumbs to put on top of it!
In-N-Out
Protein Style
Instead of a bun, get your burger wrapped in lettuce by asking for it to be protein style! That’s a simple way to cut down on your carb intake while still enjoying an incredible burger.
Taco Bell
Spicy Potato Taco
I’m obsessed with the spicy potato taco! It’s low in calories and really really good!
Sub Black Beans
Subbing in black beans for any meat can help your calorie count go down and it’s so delicious! One of my favorite things to order is a black bean crunch wrap supreme or a black beans and rice bowl!
Cinnamon Twist
Want a little dessert? Cinnamon twists are so refreshing and light! I’ve been obsessed with these ever since I was a little kid!
Panda Express
Broccoli Beef
One of my go-to options is broccoli beef! It’s so good! And then get some steamed white rice and super green vegetables! Yum!
Mushroom Chicken
Another awesome option, if you are more of a chicken lover is the mushroom chicken! This chicken comes in a light ginger soy sauce and comes served with mushrooms and zucchinis!
Swap the rice
My recommendation for anyone going to Panda Express would be to incorporate super greens in your order! If you love rice, get one side of rice and one side of veggies! Either way, just get some veggies, they are steamed and delicious!
What other healthy fast food options would you recommend? Let us know in the comment section below!
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