Although it’s always best to make an effort to avoid fast food as much as possible for your health, sometimes you may still need to stop at the drive-thru for a quick bite. But that doesn’t mean you have to resort to fried, greasy meals that could stand in the way of your health goals. In fact, even though many fast food menus are loaded with unhealthy options, there are usually a few alternatives that can help you stay on track with your weight loss journey.
We checked in with health expert Orland Mata Cruz, FNP, CNN-NP of Orion Health & Wellness to discover one of the healthiest fast food meals out there. He told us that if Chick-fil-A is an option, stopping by and ordering the Grilled Chicken Salad will be one of your best bets. Read on to learn more about the benefits of this salad.
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Health benefits of Chick-fil-A's Grilled Chicken Salad
While you may be tempted to make a beeline for McDonald's and get yourself a double cheeseburger, we probably don't have to tell you that eating this meal consistently could do some serious damage to your health. That's thanks to the fact that McDonald's burgers (like many other fast foods) are loaded with calories, saturated fat, and sodium, among other additives. That's why Cruz recommends choosing a Grilled Chicken Salad from Chick-fil-A, instead.
It's important to remember that not all salads are healthy—in fact, many fast food salads are actually bad for you. But according to Cruz, Chick-fil-A's Grilled Chicken Salad is one good choice, especially if you opt for the light Italian dressing, which he says "can make it even more weight loss-friendly."
"This meal is packed with lean protein from the chicken, a variety of nutrient-rich vegetables, and a controlled amount of fats and carbohydrates when paired with the aforementioned dressing," he says. Eating high-protein meals like this one is one great way to ensure you stay satiated throughout the day, which will reduce the likelihood of overeating later on. And choosing lean proteins like grilled chicken over inflammatory red meat is always a good idea.
Don't forget to be careful with your drink of choice, too! As Cruz notes, "It's crucial to opt for water or unsweetened iced tea to accompany the meal for the best results." Remember that sodas and sweet teas are loaded with sugar, which comes with a range of health risks, including weight gain.
Ultimately, swapping harmful options like cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets, and French fries for a grilled chicken salad like this one can do wonders for your body. "This recommendation combines essential macronutrients while minimizing added sugars, unhealthy fats, and excessive sodium, making it a balanced choice for those seeking a healthier fast-food option conducive to weight loss," Cruz concludes. Perfect!
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