Better Fast Food Options
So I try to avoid it but it happens, you’re out and you get hungry so what do you do? You head for a fast food restaurant. Now hear me out, depending on your fitness and dietary goals, this doesn’t have to completely derail your day. There’s ways to still get quality meals at normal establishments.
A Chicken Caesar Wrap was the healthiest thing at this travel stop.
If you are currently tracking macros, then you can really make ANYTHING fit in your diet. I know people who are very lean and muscular and can afford to eat a Big Mac. However if you want to simply eat food that won’t leave you feeling gross, keep reading.
Chick Fil A
We all know Chick Fil A has all kinds of chicken sandwiches and salads but their grilled chicken nuggets are your better option. An 8 count order of these comes in at 140 calories with minimal fat. Paired with a side salad, you have a pretty decent lunch! You can splurge for the Kale Superfood Salad but be mindful of sugar and sodium if you need to keep this low.
In and Out
If you insist on eating a burger, head to In and Out for their burger but make sure to order it Protein Style. This will remove the buns and replace it with lettuce. It’s almost like a salad. You can opt to have fries here for an additional 395 calories since they are the best side dish they offer. This will round out your meal (no condiments!) at around 635 calories.
Wendy’s
One of my favorite options here is getting a small chili. It’s got a decent amount of protein for just 170 calories. I like to pair this up with a half order of the Spicy Chicken Caesar Salad. However I don’t use the dressing. This salad on it’s on is 250 calories so it rounds out the meal nicely.
Find snacks full of protein and nutrition to keep you full while you travel!
Subway
This place can be good or bad. With so many options, you really have to think about everything you put on your meal. Obviously the chopped salad will be your best option if you want to cut down on the carbs. I like to get the Double Chicken Chopped Salad or the Over Roasted Chicken Breast. The bread you choose will have an impact as well as any toppings. Stick to veggies and avoid extra cheese and dressings.
Panera
My favorite meal recently is the Romaine and Kale Caesar Salad with Chicken and the Creamy Tomato Soup. I buy the Pick Two option which is basically half a salad and a small cup of soup. It’s a well rounded meal which may be on the higher end of the calories but it is one of the better options on the menu. This place is tricky because they like to dress up their food as “healthy” when it’s packed with sodium and sugar. Depending on your day, you may not want to eat that because you’ll be at risk for an afternoon crash.
Obviously this list is not all inclusive and these are really just some of my go to meals. I don’t make it a habit to eat fast food because I don’t like spending the money. I travel for work often so I’m faced with these options. Also, don’t feel bad to customize! Most places will gladly offer substitutions.
What are some of your favorite go to meals when you’re out and about?
