There was a time when fast food meant unhealthy food. This is no longer the case. Many fast food restaurants now offer healthy alternatives. Some ingredients used in known staples, such as McDonald's french fries, have been changed to less fattening, lower calorie alternatives. Many diet plans, such as Weight Watchers, allow you to eat fast food, albeit less frequently. In moderation, certain fast foods are healthy to eat.
McDonald's
Happy Meals from McDonald's are not just for kids. They include a small drink, a small order of french fries and either a hamburger, cheeseburger or four chicken nuggets. French fries can be substituted for apple slices, which are much healthier for you. Also, portion size is key, so avoid ordering a larger size. You can reduce the sugar content by ordering a diet soda or you can avoid soda altogether and order fruit juice or low-fat milk as your beverage. If you prefer to skip the Happy Meal, McDonald's also offers a grilled chicken sandwich. Chicken is high in protein and low in fat.
Sandwiches
Fast food chains from Subway to Quiznos offer a variety of sandwiches. The type of bread you choose is just as important as what you put on it. To avoid excess carbohydrates and increase fiber, choose whole-grain bread. Grilled chicken, turkey and tuna have less fat than meat. To bulk up your sandwich, add vegetables instead on fattening extras like mayonnaise, cheese and bacon. Instead of potato chips, have a baked potato, vegetables or salad on the side. Just watch the dressing you use and opt for low-fat dressing, if possible.
Snacks
Snacking during the day does not have to lead to weight gain. The key is to plan ahead. If you keep snacks with you, it will be easier to walk past the vending machine and not buy junk food. For example, carry a granola bar, a small box of raisins or a bag of trail mix with you to snack on. If you forget to plan ahead, pick up a piece of fruit or a fruit salad from a produce store or deli. Fruit smoothies or protein shakes also make healthy snacks. Yogurt is another nutritious snack and better for you than ice cream.
Beverages
Choose a healthy drink to go with your meals and snacks. Water is the ideal and most convenient choice. However, fruit or vegetable juice is also beneficial as long as it is 100 percent juice. Drink coffee and tea sparingly. Even unsweetened tea and coffee has caffeine. Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, as well as energy drinks, such as Red Bull and Monster, are electrolyte replacement drinks and not intended to accompany a meal or snack.
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