Fast food can be a lifesaver when you’re short on time—but it can be a health-ruiner, too. At Wendy’s, for example, many of the most popular orders are loaded with excess calories, saturated fat, sodium, and sugar, all of which can take a toll on your heart, waistline, and blood sugar when consumed too often. Say it ain’t so!
We spoke to Dr. Rimas Geiga to get a run-down on some of the worst Wendy’s items you’re better off avoiding—and why. He recommends steering clear of the Baconator, Classic Chicken Sandwich, Dave’s Triple, and Chocolate Frosty. Instead, try ordering a tasty chicken wrap. Find all of the details below.
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1. Baconator
While the Baconator is famous for being delicious, it's also notorious for its high calorie and fat content. It features a half-pound of beef, American cheese, ketchup, mayo, and of course, six whole slices of bacon. All that bacon can take a serious toll on your health. "This burger packs a whopping 950 calories, 66 grams of fat (26 grams of saturated fat), and 1,560 mg of sodium," Dr. Geiga notes. The high saturated fat content can raise LDL cholesterol levels, which are a major contributor to arterial plaque buildup and clogged arteries. It's a heavy hitter in terms of both calories and unhealthy fats, making it a risky choice for your heart health.
2. Classic Chicken Sandwich
While it may seem like a healthier option, (after all, chicken is a great source of lean protein!) the Classic Chicken Sandwich is still problematic. "At 510 calories, 22 grams of fat (4 grams of saturated fat), and 1,200 mg of sodium, this breaded and fried chicken adds unnecessary fat and calories," Dr. Geiga explains. Even in smaller amounts, saturated fats can accumulate in the arteries over time, potentially contributing to heart disease. Choose grilled chicken whenever possible.
3. Dave's Triple
A cheeseburger is bad enough for your health when consumed frequently; tripling the beef can be detrimental. Dave's Triple is a calorie bomb with 1,160 calories, 81 grams of fat (32 grams of saturated fat), and 1,620 mg of sodium. Dr. Geiga points out, "Excessive calorie intake leads to weight gain, while high sodium levels can elevate blood pressure." The high levels of saturated fat can clog arteries, and the sodium can cause hypertension, further straining the cardiovascular system.
4. Large Chocolate Frosty
When dessert time rolls around, it's important to stay mindful about your consumption. Although a tasty class, a large Chocolate Frosty is a dessert that can spike insulin levels and contribute to weight gain. Dr. Geiga warns, "With 590 calories, 15 grams of fat (9 grams of saturated fat), and 82 grams of sugar, this dessert is a sugary treat that can lead to significant health issues." High sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance and obesity, both of which are risk factors for heart disease. Additionally, the saturated fat content can contribute to clogged arteries.
Order instead: Grilled Chicken Wrap
Opting for the Grilled Chicken Wrap is a smart choice for those watching their weight. "Choosing grilled chicken over breaded varieties slashes excess calories and fat," explains Dr. Geiga. This wrap offers a satisfying dose of lean protein, essential for keeping you full longer, while the veggies provide vitamins and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
Yum!
