How to Make Healthy Choices at Fast Food Restaurants

You don't need to completely cut fast food out of your diet when trying to eat healthy, but you have to make sure to make the right selections.

Step 1: Read the menu descriptions Read the menu descriptions. Avoid dishes that are dripping with sauce, deep-fried, creamy, crispy, or breaded. These items are usually high in calories, sodium, and fat.
TIP: Opt for grilled, baked, or broiled sandwiches.
Step 2: Order lean meats Order lean meats, such as chicken breast, turkey, or roast beef. They'll lack extra calories, but still be packed with flavor.
Step 3: Ditch the skin and batter Remove chicken skin, mayonnaise, and dressing. This can save up to 240 calories and 16 grams of fat for one serving.
Step 4: Control your portion size Control your portion size. Order regular-sized items rather than large and extra-large items.
Step 5: Get rid of high-fat topping Get rid of caloric toppings, such as cheese, croutons, and bacon bits. Opt for healthy toppings, such as extra veggies, mustard, and pickles.
Step 6: Reduce your sugar load Reduce your sugar intake by ordering a fruit bowl or yogurt, instead of ice cream or pie for dessert. Eat fresh, made-to-order foods whenever possible. Leave the fast food restaurant without feeling guilty by controlling the nutritional value in your meal.
FACT: McDonald's serves over 60 million people in 117 countries every day.