During quarantine and when you are on a new setup of working from home, diet plans could be time-consuming. There could be a time that fast food is your way to cram a meal to your busy schedule. And when relying on fast food meals, it is unsurprising to gain weight from the meals you order as it is high with trans fat, sodium and additives. But did you know that there are healthy meals in fast foods that you can order?
Most nutritionists say that eating fast food meals can help you to lose weight. However, there are a lot of fast food joints that offer vegetarian options nowadays. Here are five nutritionists-approved fast-food items you can order that won't make you fat.
Note: Not because Eat This!approved some meals on restaurant chains, it means all items are safe. Keep the awareness by checking the ingredients of the meals you will order to their official website.
Oatmeal (Starbucks)
Marisa Moore, MBA, RDN, LD, and owner of Marisa Moore Nutrition said, "I will stop off at Starbucks when I'm flying. In the morning, the oatmeal is a tummy saver." Moore added that oatmeal from Starbucks is an easy way to get some protein and fiber. Like Marissa, you will also love ordering oatmeal from Starbucks with nuts, dried fruit, sugar, and other toppings to gain control of how sweet you want your oatmeal to be.
Egg & Cheddar Sandwich (Starbucks)
Bannan told Eat This!that he often picks up an egg-and-cheese breakfast sandwich from Starbucks when he is short on time in the morning. "For less than 300 calories, it gives 14 grams of protein for staying energetic. Plus, it's a source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A. While the sandwich is higher in sodium than if I will make it at home, it's much lower in sodium than most grab-and-go breakfast offerings."
Roasted Beet Quinoa & Citrus Salad (Panera)
Leah Kaufman, MS, RD, CDN, a New York City-based registered dietitian, told Eat This!that she loves Panera as they do not use artificial ingredients or preservatives. The roasted Beet, Quinoa and Citrus Salad is a seasonal entree with a great mix of vegetarian proteins, whole grains, and a lot of fiber from kale. Lauren Slayton, MS RD of Foodtrainers, added that Panera's beet quinoa salad is a go-to meal with a bonus to get a full or half portion.
Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich (McDonald's)
Gina Hassick, RD, LDN, CDE, explained that McDonald's artisan grilled chicken sandwich is a healthier option. This sandwich comes with a side of apple slices. You will only consume 7 grams of fat, 380 calories, 37 grams protein, and 44 grams carbohydrate with one order. An additional apple slice only adds 4 grams of carbohydrate and 20 calories compared to a small fries with 10 grams fat, 30 grams carbohydrate, 230 calories, and 3 grams protein.
Grilled Chicken Nuggets (Chick-Fil-A)
Kaufman said that Chick-Fil-A grilled chicken nuggets contain 140 calories and 25 grams protein only. The grilled chicken nuggets are a great option to the traditional fried chicken nuggets. You may also pair it with vegetables and create a complete and well-rounded meal.
Check these out:
6 Unhealthiest Fast-Food Restaurants, New Data Reveals
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Tips to Smart Snacking While Stuck at Home
