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How to Eat Fast Food on a Heart Healthy Diet
by Contributing Writer
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Overview
While fast food and heart health do not usually seem like they have much to do with each other, in reality it is not only possible, but fairly easy to eat fast food on a heart healthy diet. Of course, this does not mean throw out your healthy grains, fresh fruits and delicious salmon, but it does meant that should you find yourself in a rush and on the go, you will be able to accommodate your heart's needs on most fast food menus.
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Step 1
Stick with the plain and simple. Cheese and creamy condiments like mayonnaise and "special sauces" are the biggest culprits when it comes to making a carry-out burger bad for you. If you eat a plain hamburger with mustard, ketchup, lettuce and tomato alone, then you will not put a serious dent in your diet. Steer clear of double-stackers, however, since beef is not the best meat for your heart in large quantities.
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Step 2
Try a grilled salad. You have probably read more than one article about how deceptive a lot of "healthy" fast food offerings like salads really are. However, if you go grilled and avoid cheese and high-fat dressings and sauces, you will be just fine. That crunchy fried chicken salad though? Not an option.
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Step 3
Get your chicken grilled. A lot of people simply assume that a chicken sandwich is better for them than a burger. However, if that chicken is fried, breaded or doused in cheese or other sauces, it could be far worse for your arteries than you could ever imagine. Get plain, grilled chicken on a bun, and chow down without any guilt.
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Step 4
Drink water with your meal. While it may look like a no-brainer to get a "big gulp" soda with your meal for a dime, soda is a major source of sugar and calories. Drinking water will not only be better for you, but it will help you fill up before you are tempted to start in on the fries.
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Step 5
Factor in portion control. While it is tempting and easy to assume that a serving size is the amount of food that they give you in that paper sack, in reality a combo meal could contain multiple servings of meat, bread and starchy foods. Determine how much of a burger is actually an appropriate serving, then just eat that much. You may end up cutting your sandwiches in half, but you'll have food left over later and your heart will thank you.
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- If you have a heart condition, consult a physician to develop a diet that is safe and effective for you.
- If you have a heart condition, consult a physician to develop a diet that is safe and effective for you.
