Fast foods have become staples of eating in the United States and many other countries in the Western world. Meals purchased from fast food restaurants account for over 30 percent of the food consumed in the United States, according to David Wolfe, author of "The Sunfood Diet Success System." However, these foods are often devoid of nutrients, and are packed with harmful substances such as saturated fats, sodium, trans fats and preservatives. Fortunately, there are many healthy alternatives to fast food meals and snacks.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh, raw fruits and vegetables are healthy alternatives to fast food offerings such as French fries, onion rings, pies and ice cream. These foods contain no cholesterol or saturated fats, and ar naturally low in sodium. They also supply the body with important vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamin A, folate, dietary fiber, phosphorus, potassium and zinc, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Cut fruits and vegetables can be easily transported in storage containers or freezer bags, and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours.
Yogurt
Low-fat yogurt is a nutritious replacement for ice cream and other fast food desert selections. This easily portable snack is rich in calcium, vitamin B12 and other nutrients, according to the Balches. It is also an abundant source of enzymes that may aid in digestion. Yogurt contains natural cultures that may help enhance the effectiveness of prescription antibiotics for cold sores and other viral infections. Add 1 tbsp. ground flax seeds to yogurt to add a crunchy texture, and to add omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber to your snack.
Veggie Burgers
In past decades, veggie burgers were bland, and could only be found in specialty health food stores. Today, however, there are dozens of varieties of veggie burgers available in most supermarkets. Some are designed to resemble the taste of hamburger, while others, such as black bean and portobello burgers, are designed with distinctive flavors not meant to mimic the flavor of meat. These foods lack the saturated fats of beef burgers, but supply protein and vitamins. You can microwave most varieties of veggie burgers in under two minutes, so they make a quick and healthy replacement for fast food burgers, according to Jannequin Bennett, author of "Very Vegetarian." Look for low-sodium varieties -- some types of veggie burgers contain almost as much sodium as fast food hamburgers.
References
- "Very Vegetarian"; Jannequin Bennett; 2001
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Sunfood Diet Success System"; David Wolfe; 1998
Member Comments