Eating healthy on the go can be a challenge. When you’re busy, working late, or having cravings, resisting the urge to head over to a fast food joint is nearly impossible. But what if you didn’t have to? What if instead of battling your desires, beating yourself up, and feeling like you have to adhere to an uber strict diet wasn’t necessary? What if there were healthy options at every fast food place you frequent?
Good news, there is, and with help from Good Housekeeping and Pinterest, I’ve organized those options for you. Best news? It’s not always a salad.
Papa John’s: Mediterranean Veggie Pizza
A pizza is a pizza—not always the healthiest option. However, opt for a lighter slice with tomato, onion, banana pepper, mushroom, and black olives.
Total Calories: 180, Total Fat: 7 grams.
Chipotle: Burrito Bowl (Steak)
Chipotle is shamelessly one of my favorites fast food restaurants. The healthiest bowl option? Steak with pinto beans, salsa, and veggies. Ways to skip extra calories? Opt for lighter or no rice, guac, and cheese.
Total Calories: 330, Total Fat: 8 grams.
Subway: Roast Beef And Cheese Sandwich
Subway is on the healthier side when it comes to fast food options, but for the best item on the menu, check out the roast beef + provolone cheese (without dressing) and add veggies!
Total Calories: 250, Total Fat: 5 grams.
Panera Bread: Fuji Apple Salad + Chicken
One of my all time favorite salads, a mix of both veggies and fruits. Opt for the half-portion and balsamic vinaigrette for a lighter, healthier meal.
Total Calories: 285, Total Fat: 17 grams.
Einstein Brothers: Egg And Cheese Bagel
Bagels can be heavy with carbs, but sometimes they’re just so great and filling on the go! If you’re having a hankering, opt for the egg and cheese bagel (minus the bacon). It has a bit more sodium, but less than most options. Plus, you’ll get added protein from the egg!
Total Calories: 440, Total Fat: 15 grams.
Chick-Fil-A: Grilled Chicken Wrap
I’ve always been a fan of these! A wrap (on flaxseed flour flatbread) rolled with lettuce, cabbage, chicken, carrots and cheese. You can add sauce for a flavor alternative.
Total Calories: 360 (without dressing), Total Fat: 13 grams.
Starbucks: Sous Vide Egg Bites
A mix of egg whites and red pepper for a protein-packed breakfast meal. They’re little, but tasty and can be paired with fruit or low-sugar latte for a full breakfast.
Total Calories: 170, Total Fat: 7 grams.
Taco Bell: The Fresco Style Taco
Yes, it’s even possible to score a healthy option at Taco Bell! Grab a hard shell taco instead of a soft for less sodium. The crunchy beef taco is 170 per taco, so you can even order more than one!
Total Calories: 330, Total Fat: 19 grams.
Five Guys: Hamburger Mini
So cheeseburgers/hamburgers aren’t necessarily on the healthy side, but if you’re craving one, opt for the Five Guys ‘Little Hamburger.’ It’s a little less than 500 calories, and has protein. Plus you can add all the veggies: green peppers, mushrooms, onions, lettuce, etc. you desire. (And for free!)
Total Calories: 480, Total Fat: 26 grams.
Denny’s: Loaded Veggie Omlet
A breakfast yummy from the Fit-Fare menu, packed with veggies. Comes with seasonal fruit and English muffin.
Total Calories: 480, Total Fat: 14 grams.
Dairy Queen: Small Ice Cream Cone
I would be a fool if I didn’t include a sweet treat. We all crave them! If you’re needing a sugar fix, grab the small Dairy Queen cone.
Total Calories: 230, Total Fat: 7 grams.
In-N-Out: Protein Style Burger
As a Southern Californian, I enjoy a good In-N-Out burger from time to time. A way to make this a healthier option is to go for the protein burger: a burger in a lettuce wrap! You can also skip the fries and soda!
Total Calories: 240, Total Fat: 7 grams.
Image Credits: Good Housekeeping & Pinterest