Fortunately for the 50 million Americans who eat at fast-food restaurants each day, choices are no longer limited to burgers, fries, and shakes. Many chains now offer salads, baked potatoes, soups, and whole wheat products in addition to traditional selections. Here are some suggestions for more nutritious fast-food meals.
- Avoid fried foods. Choose baked or broiled instead.
- If you order fried food, remove the breading (it sops up most of the grease).
- Order pizza with mushrooms, onions, or peppers instead of pepperoni and sausage.
- Avoid mayonnaise-laced salads. Instead, opt for fresh, unadorned fruits and vegetables.
- Steer clear of bacon bits, croutons, rich salad dressings, and fried noodles.
- Use high-sodium condiments like mustard or pickles sparingly. (And don't salt fast food--it doesn't need it.)
- Ask for skim or 1/2 % low-fat milk, fruit juice, or plain water instead of milk shakes or soft drinks.
- Use skim or 1/2 % low-fat milk instead of cream or nondairy creamer in your coffee or tea.
- Avoid high-fat, calorie-rich pastries and desserts-they offer very little nutritionally.
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