Some call it the classic fast-food meal. Others call it a dinning-out dinosaur. The high-fat, high –calorie menu that made Ronald McDonald a household name is now making him a worldwide whipping boy.McDonald’s blinked … in 2002 announcing plans to take half the artery-clogging trans-fatty acid out of its French fries. But the chain is a latecomer to the better-for-you party. Burger king began selling veggie burgers months ago.Arby’s market fresh sandwiches are 1 ½ years old. Subway has seven subs with 6 grams of fat or less for four years.Later year, Wendy’s rolled out a salad line that’s the envy of the industry. Faster than you can say” hold the mayo.” The $105 billion fast food industry finds itself at a stomach- churning crossroads that could affect the eating habits of almost every consumer in the nation and ultimately, the world.The fast –food titans are hearing, and responding, to a cry for more nutritious food. They are all welcome service gasoline stations for the human body” says Ronald shaicn, CEO of Panera bread.The fast food titans are being pressured by consumer lawsuit for more healthful food. They are responding to health conscious baby boomers that stop at Panera bread or even whole foods markets instead. SOME HEALTHY FAST FOOD CHOICESBy paying attention to your choices you can make the most of your fast food meal. In fact, you can make the most of any restaurant meal.The good news is that many restaurants, fast food and sit-down, are adding healthier menu options. It is now possible to eat a fairly nutritious meal on the go. Keep in mind portion control (no super sizing), high fat and calorie sauces and dressings (eliminate them or take them on the side and use sparingly), and sodas (drink water or low fat milk). Making good choices when you are eating out will help you maintain a healthy diet. Knowing what types of menu items are healthier than others can help limit temptation and will also help you encourage your children and grandchildren to make healthy choices as well.When choosing, be aware of highly caloric additions such as salad dressings, cheese, sour cream, etc. Sometimes, making your choice healthier is as simple as removing the condiments. For example, ask for a grilled chicken sandwich without the mayonnaise. Many restaurants are making progress and offering alternatives like salads with low calorie, fat free dressings, or grilled chicken sandwiches on whole wheat rolls, but if they don’t, see what you can do to make your choice more nutritious and less fattening.Some healthy fast food choices include:
| · Grilled chicken or fish sandwich ·
Whole wheat rolls · Fruit or fruit and yogurt · Baked potato (with vegetables instead of cheese, butter or sour cream) · Salad with dressing on the side or fat free salad dressing |
· Single hamburger (regular or children’s size)
· Low fat deli sandwiches on wheat bread or on pita bread · Wraps on whole wheat tortillas (without dressing) · Fat free / low fat milk or water |
