Kentucky Fried Chicken, or KFC, is a fast food restaurant that offers up a variety of menu items that center on fried chicken. In response to the health concerns related to eating a high fat and high calorie diet, KFC has recently introduced several grilled chicken options. However, HelpGuide.org reports that a fast food meal often contains as many calories as you need in an entire day. Making lower calorie choices allows you enjoy a KFC meal in a healthier way.
Dangers of a High-Calorie Diet
Many fast food restaurants, KFC included, serve up huge portions that are very high in calories. While eating them once in awhile won't kill you, regular consumption of fried foods at KFC will increase your risk of several health conditions. According to the National Institutes of Health, two fast food meals per week results in weight gain and an increased risk of developing diabetes. Being overweight also puts you at an increased risk of developing heart disease, and a poor diet ups your odds of cancer and depression.
High-Calorie Foods at KFC
Since many of the options at KFC are made using fried chicken, much of the menu is going to be things you want to avoid. The Popcorn Chicken Value Box contains 660 calories before you add any sides. An Original Recipe chicken breast weighs in with 320 calories and an Extra Crispy chicken breast contains 510 calories. A Double Crunch Sandwich with Crispy Strip contains 500 calories. Add a side of Potato Wedges and you increase your calorie count by 260 calories and a Cornbread Muffin adds 210 calories.
Low-Calorie Foods at KFC
It may be surprising to discover that ordering a wing or drumstick will add less calories to your KFC meal than a chicken breast does. An Original Recipe wing has 140 calories while an Extra Crispy drumstick has 150 calories. As long as you stick to one you can enjoy a piece of fried chicken for minimal calories. Add a side of green beans for only 20 calories and a side of three bean salad contains 70 calories. Other lower calorie options include,a Grilled Filet Sandwich without sauce at 290 calories, a Grilled Chicken Breast with 210 calories and KFC Honey BBQ Snacker with 210 calories.
Tips for Eating at KFC
Despite the high calorie counts of many of the menu items at KFC, it is possible to mix and match to create a low-calorie meal. HelpGuide.org recommends choosing grilled chicken over fried or removing the skin and breading before eating, ordering a garden salad or side of vegetables instead of french fries and limiting the amount or sauce and gravy that accompanies your meal. Another way to cut calories when eating fast food is to opt for water or unsweetened iced tea over soft drinks or fruit punch.
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