Fast-Food Fixes

Story by Pam Brandt

On the fly? You can combine convenience and healthy eating—here’s how.

My husband nicknamed it “Fast-Food Alley”— the long line of fast-food restaurants that linked our apartment complex with the rest of the world. All the familiar faces were there—Burger King, Arby’s, KFC,McDonald’s, Taco Bell— along with a few we’d never heard of. And no matter the time of day or night, people lined up to buy breakfast, lunch, supper or a quick snack. After living in Europe where fast-food was much more difficult to find, our re-introduction to North America’s fast-food culture was swift and unnerving.

That was 10 years ago. Today, fast-food remains a permanent fixture and constant reminder of our fast-paced, convenience-driven culture. People are busier than ever. So busy that sixty per cent of Canadians complain that they don’t have enough energy to grocery shop or prepare healthy meals, says Samara Felesky- Hunt, a registered dietician and nutritionist with Calgary’s Downtown Sports Clinic. But while we’re still surrounded by hundreds of different fast-food choices that offer a wide range of meal options, the good news is it’s easier to make smart food choices today than it was even three years ago.

Health-savvy consumers have pushed traditional fast-food chains such as Wendy’s and Burger King to provide more nutritious, lowerfat alternatives.Newer ones, such as Booster Juice and The Pita Pit, are committed to offering mainly healthy food choices. “With a little thought, fast-food can fit into a healthy lifestyle,” says Felesky-Hunt. “The secret is knowing what to choose and using a little common sense.” She suggests that the first step is to be aware and conscious of what you eat. “Before you order the Big Mac, large fries and large Coke, take a minute to step back and ask yourself how you can make healthier food choices. Is it worth the fat and sugar and calories?”

Be a savvy consumer.Most fast-food chains make their menus’ nutritional information available. To find out exactly what you’re eating, ask when you place your order or check out the restaurant’s Web site. You might be surprised at the healthy alternatives they serve. •

FAST-FOOD CHEAT SHEET

5 TIPS FOR HEALTHY FAST-FOOD EATING

1. Skip fried, breaded or creamed items. If you just can’t say no to the fries, order the smallest size or split a large order among several eaters.
   
2. Ask for whole-wheat breads to add extra fibre.
   
3. Practice portion control. Order a single, regular or junior hamburger. Or get a kid’s meal. There’s usually no age limit and it
   is portion control at its  best.
   
4. Choose vegetarian, turkey or chicken sub sandwiches. Hold the butter and mayo.
   
5. Bump up the veggies. Ask for a salad with dressing on the side.