Choosing Healthier Options at Fast-Food Restaurants

Eating healthy at a fast-food restaurant may be challenging, but it’s not impossible. A recent list on The Takeout website highlights some of the most nutritious fast-food meals available. These meals are typically lower in calories and contain more vitamins and minerals compared to other menu items. However, healthy eating encompasses more than calorie count, says Dr. Kristin Struble, a functional medicine pediatrician in Arizona.

Dr. Struble commented on the list, stating that ‘nutritious’ can be an overstatement. The Taco Bell Veggie Mexican Pizza with guacamole ranked first on the list. Health experts caution that many bread, bun, and tortilla products in fast-food settings, including this tortilla, are highly processed and should be avoided. Struble notes that the Veggie Mexican Pizza may not be the best choice due to its processed ingredients, which can cause gut inflammation. Additionally, being vegetarian, it lacks significant protein content, leading to hunger after a short period.

As an alternative, Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets with Kale Crunch Salad and Fruit Cup are suggested by Dr. Struble and Dr. Lauren Powell from Georgia. Powell appreciates Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets as a better option. However, she advises caution with the kale salad dressing, which contains soybean oil, maple syrup, and preservatives. Not everyone can tolerate kale, Struble adds.

“That superfood is not so super for everyone,” Dr. Struble noted.

Three burgers without buns from McDonald’s, Five Guys, and In-N-Out also made the list. Assuming the meat isn’t heavily processed, these could be practical choices. Struble mentions that cheeseburgers can be better due to their protein and fat content, along with some lettuce.

The Wendy’s baked potato is another viable option, according to Powell, who finds its transparency about ingredients reassuring. Powell advises diners to seek salads and scrutinize the dressing’s composition. She keeps olive oil in her office to dress salads, seasoning with sea salt and pepper.

Chipotle ranks among the best fast-food options when it comes to macronutrient focus, specifically protein and fat. Struble remarks on Chipotle’s selections of high-protein options and fiber-filled black beans. Highly processed carbs such as tortillas, chips, and white rice should be avoided. The salsa and vegetables offer vitamins and micronutrients; the guacamole provides fiber and healthy fats.

For those traveling and seeking healthy meals, Powell suggests stopping at grocery stores instead of fast-food spots. This option has the added benefit of some exercise that a drive-thru wouldn’t provide. Struble advises avoiding chemically-laden snacks often found at fast-food chains and gas stations, even if labeled gluten-free. It’s important to recognize that many purportedly healthy food products can be misleading.

Nuts are a generally healthy, quick snack found at convenience stores. However, protein shakes may not be ideal due to sugar content and processing. The doctors recommend packing food ahead of time when possible. If consuming fast food, acknowledge it as a necessity-driven choice rather than a routine pattern, Powell suggests.

Comments have been requested from Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and Taco Bell by Fox News Digital. Teresa Mull contributed as a freelance writer with Fox News Digital’s Lifestyle team.