Fast food is often associated with unhealthy eating habits, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are many fast-food restaurants that offer some healthy options on their menus, as long as you know what to look for and how to order. In this blog post, we will share 10 healthy fast-food items you can order at the drive-thru, without sacrificing taste or convenience.

1. Starbucks: Spinach, Feta & Egg Wrap

If you need a quick breakfast with your morning coffee, this wrap from Starbucks is a great choice. It has 290 calories, 20 grams of protein, and 3 grams of fiber, as well as spinach, feta cheese, and egg whites. It will keep you full and satisfied until lunchtime, and it’s also vegetarian-friendly.

2. Subway: Veggie Delite Sandwich

For a light and refreshing lunch, you can’t go wrong with the Veggie Delite sandwich from Subway. It has 230 calories, 3 grams of fat, and 280 milligrams of sodium, before the cheese and sauces. You can choose from a variety of breads, such as 9-grain wheat or honey oat, and load it up with fresh veggies, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. You can also add some grilled chicken or cheese for extra protein, and opt for a low-fat dressing, such as mustard or vinegar.

3. McDonald’s: Hamburger

Yes, you can have a burger at McDonald’s and still eat healthy. The classic hamburger has 250 calories, 9 grams of fat, and 520 milligrams of sodium, which is much lower than some of the other burgers on the menu. You can also add some lettuce and tomato for extra freshness, and pair it with a small fries for a satisfying treat.

4. Taco Bell: Power Menu Bowl

If you’re craving some Mexican flavors, the Power Menu Bowl from Taco Bell is a good option. It has 490 calories, 19 grams of fat, and 1270 milligrams of sodium, and it comes with rice, black beans, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, and your choice of chicken or steak. It’s a filling and flavorful meal that has plenty of protein and fiber, and you can also customize it to your liking by adding or removing ingredients.

5. Domino’s: Thin Crust Veggie Pizza

Pizza can be a healthy fast food item, as long as you choose the right crust and toppings. The thin crust veggie pizza from Domino’s has 180 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 380 milligrams of sodium per slice, and it’s loaded with veggies, such as mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives. You can also ask for less cheese or add some chicken for more protein.

6. Panda Express: Broccoli Chicken

Chinese food can be tricky to order healthy, as many dishes are fried or coated in sugary sauces. But the broccoli chicken from Panda Express is a good choice, as it has 150 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 520 milligrams of sodium per serving, and it’s made with tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a ginger soy sauce. You can pair it with some brown rice or mixed veggies for a balanced meal.

7. Wendy’s: Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad

Salads are not always the healthiest option at fast food restaurants, as they can be high in calories, fat, and sodium, depending on the dressing and toppings. But the Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad from Wendy’s is a good exception, as it has 600 calories, 41 grams of fat, and 1070 milligrams of sodium per full size, and it’s packed with grilled chicken, avocado, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and bacon. It also comes with a Southwest ranch dressing that adds some spice and creaminess.

8. Panera Bread: You Pick Two Combo

Panera Bread is known for its fresh and wholesome food, and the You Pick Two combo is a great way to enjoy a variety of dishes. You can choose any two items from the menu, such as a half sandwich, a half salad, a cup of soup, or a flatbread, and create your own meal. Some of the best options are the turkey avocado BLT sandwich, the Greek salad, the chicken noodle soup, and the margherita flatbread.

9. Chipotle: Burrito Bowl

Chipotle is a popular fast food chain that specializes in Mexican food, and the burrito bowl is one of the best items on the menu. It has 650 calories, 23 grams of fat, and 1450 milligrams of sodium, and it comes with rice, beans, salsa, cheese, sour cream, lettuce, and your choice of meat or tofu. It’s a hearty and delicious meal that has a lot of protein and fiber, and you can also customize it to your liking by adding or removing ingredients.

10. KFC: Roasted Chicken Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is usually not a healthy fast food option, as it can be high in fat and calories, especially with the croutons and dressing. But the roasted chicken Caesar salad from KFC is a good alternative, as it has 190 calories, 6 grams of fat, and 740 milligrams of sodium, without the croutons and dressing. It’s made with roasted chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing, and you can add some fresh fruit for a sweet side.

FAQs

Q: What are some tips to order healthy fast food?

A: Here are some tips to order healthy fast food:

• Check the nutrition facts and ingredients of the menu items before you order, and look for the ones that are lower in calories, fat, sodium, and sugar, and higher in protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Avoid fried, breaded, or creamy dishes, and opt for grilled, baked, or steamed ones instead.
• Ask for sauces, dressings, and cheese on the side, and use them sparingly or not at all.
• Choose water, unsweetened tea, or low-fat milk as your drink, and avoid soda, juice, or alcoholic beverages.
• Order smaller portions, such as kids’ meals, or share your food with someone else, and avoid supersizing or upsizing your order.
• Enjoy your food slowly and mindfully, and stop eating when you feel full, not stuffed.

Q: What are some of the health benefits of eating fast food occasionally?

A: Eating fast food occasionally can have some health benefits, such as:

• Saving time and money, as fast food is usually cheaper and more convenient than cooking at home or eating out at a restaurant.
• Satisfying your cravings, as fast food can be tasty and enjoyable, and can help you avoid binge eating or overeating later.
• Providing variety and balance, as fast food can offer some nutrients and flavors that you may not get from your regular diet, and can help you avoid boredom or monotony.

Q: What are some of the health risks of eating fast food frequently?

A: Eating fast food frequently can have some health risks, such as:

• Increasing your risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions, as fast food is usually high in calories, fat, sodium, and sugar, and low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Affecting your mood, energy, and mental health, as fast food can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances, and can interfere with your sleep quality and brain function.
• Reducing your appetite and taste buds, as fast food can make you feel less hungry and less satisfied, and can dull your sense of taste and smell, and make you crave more salt, sugar, and fat.

Conclusion

Fast food doesn’t have to be unhealthy, as long as you choose wisely and eat moderately. There are many fast food restaurants that offer some healthy options on their menus, and you can also make some smart substitutions and requests to make your order even healthier. In this blog post, we shared 10 healthy fast food items you can order at the drive-thru, and we hope you found them helpful and appetizing. Remember, you can enjoy fast food occasionally, but don’t make it a habit, and always balance it with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Bon appetit!