Healthier fast food at burger chains

Figuring out healthier options at your favorite fast food burger chain can be tricky. A typical meal at a burger joint consists of a "sandwich", some fries and a drink, which can quickly come in at over 1700 calories for something like Burger King's Triple Whopper with a large fries and a 16 oz. soda. A better option would be a regular single patty burger, small fries, and water, which is about 500 calories. Alternatively you may enjoy a veggie burger smothered in grilled onion and mushrooms. Or if you want a large beef burger, then skip the fries and soda and have a side salad and water instead.

The Big Burger Chains

Less Healthy choices Double-patty hamburger with cheese, mayo, special sauce, and bacon Fried chicken sandwich Fried fish sandwich Salad with toppings such as bacon, cheese, and ranch dressing Breakfast burrito with steak French fries Milkshake Chicken “nuggets” or tenders Adding cheese, extra mayo, and special sauces

Healthier choices Regular, single-patty hamburger without mayo or cheese Grilled chicken sandwich Veggie burger Garden salad with grilled chicken and low-fat dressing Egg on a muffin Baked potato or a side salad Yogurt parfait Grilled chicken strips Limiting cheese, mayo, and special sauces

Guides can help you make healthier meal choices

Many fast food chains post nutritional information on their websites. Unfortunately, these lists are often confusing and hard to use. Instead you can go to other websites that provide health and nutrition information, but in easier to follow formats. Some even publish comparison downloadable guides or inexpensive pocket guides. Learn how to make a healthier meal selection at your favorite restaurant:

• HealthyDiningFinder.com – allows you to search for restaurants offering a selection of healthier menu options and view the nutrition data for selected items. You can search for area restaurants or a specific restaurant.
• Stop&Go Fast Food Nutrition Guide – this guide is particularly convenient and easy to use. Look up any of the major chain restaurants and find out how to make healthier choices. For more information, see below.