Healthy Fast Food?

Life in college is a busy time. Whether we have tests, quizzes, homework assignments, or any other class obligations to fulfill, we as students are always on the go. With that being said, it may be difficult for us to find a decent quick meal. So many of us turn to fast food in between studying and class without really thinking about what we are eating. Sure, you know that fast food is unhealthy and you know that a home cooked meal beats a fast food meal any day, but for some of us, eating fast food may be unavoidable. Fast food should not be consumed on an everyday basis, but if you occasionally feel the need to get it, what are some of the healthier options available to you? 

Fitness Magazine has named a few fast foods which according to them are, “surprisingly healthy,” in a recent article titled “24 Surprisingly Healthy Fast Foods.” Here are some of their top picks for restaurants such as Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), McDonalds, and Taco Bell. The jury is still out on whether or not these options offer a truly “healthy” alternative, but choosing these options will help you cut down on calories if you’re on the go. 

Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)

KFC Original Recipe Drumstick 

140 calories, 8g fat, 2g saturated fat

Pick just one drumstick and add some of the lower calorie sides below for a healthier alternative.

KFC Potato Salad 

180 calories, 9g fat, 1.5g saturated fat

This option doesn’t have any trans fat, and its packed with red bell peppers, celery, potatoes, and onions. Be sure to choose this over fried potato wedges. 

KFC Cole Slaw 

190 calories, 11g fat, 2g saturated fat

Cabbage is packed with vitamin C and carrots contain vitamins A, K, C, and potassium, making this option healthier than other menu items. 

KFC Honey BBQ Sandwich 

300 calories, 6g fat, 1.5g saturated fat

This happens to be the lowest calorie sandwich option on the menu.

McDonalds

McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets with Sweet ‘N Sour Sauce 

4 pieces, 220 calories, 10g fat, 2g saturated fat

McDonald’s Hamburger 

260 calories, 9g fat, 3.5g saturated fat

This burger makes the cut because of it’s size. Rather than choosing fries to accompany it, choose a side salad with a vinaigrette dressing, and drink a diet soda or a bottle of water. 

McDonald’s Egg McMuffin 

300 calories, 12g fat, 4.5g saturated fat

Rather than choosing the sausage options available on the menu, choosing this option, with lean Canadian bacon, is a healthier alternative. 

McDonald’s McChicken 

370 calories, 16g fat, 3.5g saturated fat

Since this sandwich is smaller than the grilled chicken options, it has fewer calories. 

Taco Bell

Taco Bell Fresco Style Crunchy Taco 

150 calories

7g fat, 2.5g saturated fat

Asking for a meal from Taco Bell’s “Fresco” menu, means they give you fresh salsa instead of the less healthier alternatives of cheese and sauce. 

Taco Bell Fresco Style Grilled Steak Soft Taco 

170 calories, 5g fat, 1.5g saturated fat

Red meat will add protein, zinc, and iron to your diet. 

Taco Bell Fresco Style Tostada 

200 calories, 6g fat, 1g saturated fat

Taco Bell Gordita Nacho Cheese -- Chicken 

270 calories, 10g fat, 2.5g saturated fat

This pick is covered in cheese yet still is under 300 calories.