When you are out and about, whether you are picking up kids and shuffling them to their activities, dashing home from work, or grabbing a quick lunch with friends, sometimes it’s hard to avoid fast food.
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind before going through that drive-thru.
Try Your Burger Wrapped in Lettuce
Try your next burger wrapped in cool, crisp iceberg lettuce. You will be pleasantly surprised by the freshness of this option! Plus, with all the condiments and veggies, you’ll hardly notice the bun is missing. Try this at home also, and layer your burger with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and your favorite condiments for an open-faced, bun free option. If it’s too hard to let go of the bun, do it gradually by using one side of the bun- the flatter end.
Would You Not Like Fries with That?
Always opt to skip the fries and take a salad or fruit for your side as well. If it’s too hard to resist, ask your friend to share a couple of fries with you– it will be good for both of you. Sometimes you can satisfy your craving by just indulging in a hand-full and moving on to your main meal. Also, if you are at home, try baking your own batch in an air-fryer. Julienned sweet potatoes make another good option.
Soups and Salads
Opt for a soup or salad, this works especially in the winter months! And, it’s easier to have a conversation with these foods. Enjoy seasonal soups, like butternut squash and pumpkin or classics like minestrone, chicken noodle or vegetable. Pair it with a yummy salad– it doesn’t have to be boring, try something new like a chicken salad, Greek salad, Caprese, Thai, papaya or Teriyaki sesame salads. Have a thin piece of bread on the side if you desire so you don’t totally miss the carbs.
Avoid Soda
Try cutting the soda out if you can! If you can’t cut it out, opt for a diet soda instead, but keep in mind they contain artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors, coloring agents, and preservatives. If you need a little afternoon kick, try unsweetened iced tea, sparkling or flavored carbonated water or fruit-infused water instead.
Suggest Healthy Dining Options
If you’re going out with a group of friends, do your research and pick some restaurants where you know you will have good options. If you’re trying a new place, check out the menu beforehand to make sure you have good options. The options for those following certain diets such as paleo and keto are getting broader, you just have to look out for them.
NOTE: The information is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified nutritional professional. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your specific dietary needs.