Healthy fast food?
Yes, it's possible if you make careful choices!
Make careful menu selections - pay attention to the descriptions on the menu. Dishes labeled deep-fried, pan-fried, basted, batter-dipped, breaded, creamy, crispy, scalloped, Alfredo, au gratin or in cream sauce are usually high in calories, unhealthy fats or sodium
Look before you leap - check out the chain’s website. Many fast food chains post nutritional information on their websites - we’ve listed a few below. The lists are often confusing in their detail but if you frequent a favorite chain and often choose certain menu items, you may be amazed by the calories, saturated fats and sodium you are consuming. Finding satisfying substitutes is more than worth the time and effort.
Undress” your food. When choosing, be aware of calorie- and fat-packed salad dressings, spreads, cheese, sour cream, etc. For example, ask for a grilled chicken sandwich without the mayonnaise.
Don't be afraid to special order. Many menu items would be healthy if it weren't for the way they were prepared. Ask for your vegetables and main dishes to be served without the sauces. If your food is fried or cooked in oil or butter, ask to have it broiled or steamed
Watch portion size - share or bring a portion home. At a typical restaurant, a single serving provides enough for two meals. To overcome this obstacle, take half home or divide the portion with a dining partner. Sharing might make dessert (or something else indulgent) more of an option.
Watch your salt. Fast food restaurant food tends to be very high in sodium, a major contributor to high blood pressure. Don’t add insult to injury by adding more salt
Avoid buffets – even seemingly healthy ones like salad bars. You'll likely overeat to get your money's worth. If you do choose buffet dining, opt for fresh fruits, salads with low-fat dressings, broiled entrees and steamed vegetables. Resist the temptation to go for seconds, or wait at least 20 minutes after eating to make sure you’re really still hungry before going back up to the buffet.
Remember soda is a huge source of hidden calories - According to The Center for Science in the Public Interest, soft drinks are the single biggest source of calories in the American diet. One 32-oz big gulp with non-diet cola packs about 425 calories, so one Big Gulp can quickly gulp up a big portion of your daily calorie intake. Try switching to water with lemon or unsweetened iced tea.
Eat mindfully. Mindful eating means paying attention to what you eat and savoring each bite. Being mindful also means noticing when you are almost full and laying down your fork. Mindful eating relaxes you so you digest better and makes you feel more satisfied.
Remember the big picture – Think of eating out in the context of your whole diet. If it is a special occasion, or you know you want to order your favorite meal at a nice restaurant, cut back on your other meals that day. Moderation is always key, but planning ahead can help you relax and enjoy your dining out experience without sacrificing good nutrition or diet control.
from
http://www.helpguide.orgposted by JIWON