Healthy Lunch: Ordering Fast Food

by Molly Niendorf — September 21, 2008

If you left your lunch at home and don't have time for a sit-down restaurant meal or if you're on the road and looking for a quick stop, you can find healthy options at fast food restaurants. I've compiled a list of common fast food chains and some of their healthiest options below. For salads and sandwiches, nutrition amounts are without sauces and dressings. Many of these have high protein content, which means you'll stay full longer. But, as expected, the portions aren't what they'd be if you made this food at home. You can prepare healthier burgers on your own, but when you're in a jam, use these fast food guidelines:

• Burger King--BK Chicken Sandwich (267 calories, 8g fat, 22g protein); Chunky Chicken Salad (142 calories, 4g fat, 20g protein)
• Carl's Jr--Hamburger (280 calories, 9g fat, 14g protein)
• Jack in the Box--Chicken Fajita Pita (330 calories, 11g fat, 24g protein)
• KFC--Original Recipe Drumstick (140 calories, 9g fat, 13g protein); Tender Roast Sandwich (270 calories, 5g fat, 8g protein); Mashed Potatoes with Gravy (120 calories, 6g fat, 1g protein)
• McDonald's--Chicken McGrill (340 calories, 7g fat, 26g protein)
• Taco Bell--Bean Burrito (380 calories, 12g fat, 13g protein); Grilled Chicken Burrito (410 calories, 15g fat, 50g protein)
• Wendy's--Large Chili (310 calories, 10g fat, 23g protein); Plain Baked Potato (310 calories, 0g fat, 7g protein); Jr Hamburger (270 calories, 9g fat, 14g protein)