We have on be there from one time or another. The day has snuck away, we have failed to prep or plan and we are left with one choice. Fast Food. While normally I say stay away at all costs, I do however understand that life happens. Road trips happen, forgotten lunches happen. So, what CAN you order at the drive thru that won't totally throw your healthy eating for a loop?
1. Chipotle- Salad
Salad-with only lettuce, black beans, fajita veggies, tomato salsa, corn salsa, and guacamole. Skip the chips and sugary soda and you have a healthy lunch coming in at only 400 calories, just 2g saturated fat, 23g fiber, and 15g protein.
2. Quiznos- Harvest Chicken Salad
Quiznos' Harvest Chicken Salad is probably one of the healthiest chicken salads you'll find on deli menus, thanks to fresh fruit and vegetables, antioxidant-rich pumpkin seeds, and a tangy Acai vinaigrette. While the fat content might seem a little high (19g), most of those are the heart-healthy, mono- and polyunsaturated kinds that will keep you feeling full until dinner, The nutrition on the small version (with dressing): 300 calories, 19g fat (4.5g saturated fat), 24g carbohydrates, 19g sugar, and 9g protein.
3.Boston Market-Quarter White Rotisserie Chicken (Skin Removed)
with a side of garlic dill new potatoes and steamed vegetables
This satisfying and ultra filling lunch will have you feeling the opposite of deprived. Many people have this belief that a low-calorie lunch can only have protein and vegetables and no carbohydrates, let alone potatoes. This satisfying lunch clocks in at only 400 calories, 9.5g fat (1.5g saturated fat), 5g fiber, and a whopping 53gprotein.
4. Starbucks-Chicken and Hummus Bistro Box
This one contains grilled chicken strips, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, wheat pita, and hummus for 260 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 5g fiber, and 20g protein. If you want, you still have room to add a serving of fruit and iced tea or a skim latte without breaking the 400-calorie mark, Hendel says. "I really like the fact that all the ingredients are simple and recognizable."
5. Taco Bell- Fresco Chicken Soft Tacos, with a side of black beans.
When you order your tacos fresco [at Taco Bell], fresh lettuce and Pico de Gallo replace the cheese and avocado ranch sauce, reducing the calorie count by up to 200 calories per taco. Made with flour tortillas, marinated and grilled all-white-meat chicken, shredded lettuce, and Pico de Gallo, you can order up two of these delicious tacos for just 300 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 36g carbohydrates, 4g fiber, 4g sugars, and 22g protein. Adding a side of black beans, which offer an extra dose belly-filling fiber (5g) for only 80 extra calories, to round out your meal.
6. Chili's-Spicy Garlic and Lime Shrimp
Chili's Spicy Garlic and Lime Shrimp clocks in at just 170 calories, 9g fat (2.5g saturated fat), 6g carbohydrates, 1g fiber, and 15g protein, but it's part of the 'Make It A Combo' deal, which allows you to pick from two entrees, and is served with a side of steamed broccoli and mashed potatoes. Skipthe potatoes and sticking with just the shrimp and broccoli to hit the 250-calorie mark, and feel free to add a side of black beans for just 100 additional calories and five grams of filling fiber.
The best way to avoid fast food all together? Plan, prep and pack. The more prepared you are, the more on track you will say. Another great way to stay on track, Healthy Snacking!