When you're looking for a fast, cheap way to fill your rumbling stomach, fast food may provide a ready solution. But, when you're looking for a way to nourish your body with solid nutrition...not so much. It's OK to indulge in the occasional fat and sodium-laden fast food meal, but if you find yourself sitting in the drive-through line too often, your health will pay the price. Fortunately, there are ways to make smart choices when seeking sustenance of the cheap and easy kind.
Beverages
You already know that soda is packed with sugar, high in calories and devoid of nutritional value. According to HelpGuide.org, the whopping 32 oz. servings commonly offered at fast food restaurants can contain as many as 425 calories -- enough for a whole meal. Water, on the other hand, is your friend. You can buy it bottled, or ask for tap water, which is not only free of calories but free of charge. Skim milk, ice tea and fruit juices are other healthier options, but keep in mind that fruit juice can also be high in calories.
The Roti (Bread) Less Taken
Fast food offerings can extend beyond Western burger and fries fare. In many areas, fast food restaurants specialize in ethnic cuisine that can be quite healthy. Check out the tabouli salad and hummus as your local falafel joint. Go for Chinese, but avoid fried anything and ask for no MSG. The taco place down the street probably offers vegetarian options such as burritos with guacamole and refried beans, or rice and beans. Explore a little beyond your comfort zone and you may find a cheap, easy and guilt-free meal options.
Graze on Greens
Most fast food restaurants recognize that not all customers are eager to plunge headlong into a life of obesity and heart disease. As a result, they offer salad options. If you want to go this route, MayoClinic advises you to opt out of fried or breaded toppings, cheese, bacon bits or croutons on your salad and instead choose grilled chicken, shrimp or vegetables, with a low fat, low calorie dressing.
Naked Lunch
If you still want a burger, take it naked, meaning: strip off all the fatty, salty additions that tarts it up. Choose grilled over fried meats. Special sauces, cheese, strips of bacon and other accoutrements can pile on more calories than are contained in the burger itself. If you want to eat healthy, but insist on frequenting fast foods restaurants, order your entrees as close to nature as possible. Piling on fresh veggies and pickles will add flavor and texture without adding artery-clogging fats.
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