Most of us eat a fair share of our meals on the go. For most of us, our lunch times are only quick jaunts away from the workplace. We’re forced to; if we want a hot lunch, grab something from the nearest fast food joint. Obviously this is not the greatest approach to eating healthy but do not fret! There are ways to eat a healthy diet while still visiting the drive thru of your favorite fast food eatery.
Avoiding fried foods and saturated fats seems like a big challenge to those who are prone to jaunts through the drive thru. Luckily doing so is not impossible. Sure it’s a challenge but it can be done. One of the easiest ways to avoid the traditional fast food fare is to aim for a restaurant that is known for healthier alternatives to your favorite quick foods. Arby’s roast beef sandwiches, for example, are a better way to fill up than grabbing a greasy burger from someplace else. Wendy’s offers plenty of healthy choices from baked potatoes to big salads. Even Jack in the Box has wraps available to those who don’t want a sandwich.
Some fast food places have started offering customers a “low carb” menu. Order from that whenever you can and you’ll have easier access to healthy versions of your favorite foods. Or, you could opt to choose a salad option. Most fast food restaurants offer a variety of salads for people to choose from. Sure they are harder to eat in the car (really, it’s probably better to wait until you are back at your desk), but they are so much better for your health!
Ask for milk or juice instead of getting a giant soda. You might even ask for plain water. These are easy ways to cut down on your calories and cut your sugar and caffeine intake at the same time. Instead of getting a milkshake for a frozen treat, opt for frozen yogurt or a fruit smoothie.
If you’re running in for a quick cup of coffee, ask for an apple cider instead! Apple cider is better for you and you can get it without whipped cream or caramel or any of the extra (sugared) additions. It is still tasty and satisfying but it has fewer calories, less sugar and is caffeine free—all things that you want to aim for if you want to have a healthier diet.
Of course the easiest way to avoid eating the junky foods you’ll find at the drive thru is to pack your own meals and snacks when you go to work or hit the road. Not only will this help save you money it will help you eat much healthier meals! When you make your own food you can control exactly what goes into each part of your meal. Many workplaces offer microwaves and refrigerators for foods that need heating up or keeping cool. If you’re on a road trip, filling a cooler with easy snackables like fruit and sandwiches can save you valuable time—and come in handy when you’re stuck miles from a pit stop but those hunger pangs just won’t go away.
If you must hit your favorite fast food drive thru, take some time to read the menu. You’ll be surprised by all of the healthy alternatives to your junkier favorites.