Finding Heart Healthy Fast Food Items

What is Heart Healthy?

Having a heart healthy diet is important for everyone, but especially those who are at risk of heart disease. Eating heart healthy foods helps to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and keep your heart healthy. Heart healthy foods include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. When it comes to fast food, it can be difficult to find items that are both tasty and meet the requirements for a heart healthy diet.

Fast Food Restaurants Offering Heart Healthy Options

Most major fast food restaurants offer some form of heart-healthy options on their menus. McDonald’s, for example, has a variety of choices such as salads, grilled chicken sandwiches, and oatmeal. Taco Bell also offers some healthier choices, such as the Fresco menu. Subway is another popular fast food restaurant that has a variety of healthy options, such as salads, wraps, and sandwiches.

Heart Healthy Items to Look Out For

When trying to find heart healthy fast food items, look for items that are low in sodium and fat, and high in fiber and protein. Avoid fried foods and foods that are high in saturated fats, such as burgers and fries. Also, look for items that are grilled or baked, rather than fried. Additionally, look for items that are made with whole grains, such as whole wheat bread or brown rice.

Healthy Fast Food Combos

When ordering fast food, it is important to pay attention to the combination of items you order. Many fast food restaurants offer combos that come with a drink and side item, such as fries. To make sure your meal is heart healthy, try to order a healthier side item, such as a side salad or fruit cup. Additionally, avoid sugary drinks, and opt for water or unsweetened tea instead.

Smart Fast Food Swaps

Making smart swaps can help you to make healthier choices at fast food restaurants. For example, instead of ordering a burger, try a grilled chicken sandwich. You can also opt for a veggie burger instead of a beef burger. Additionally, you can opt for a wrap or salad instead of a sandwich.

Conclusion

Eating heart healthy doesn’t have to mean giving up fast food. With a little bit of research and planning, you can easily find heart healthy options at most fast food restaurants. By making smart swaps, such as grilled chicken instead of a burger, and opting for healthier sides, such as a side salad, you can make sure that your fast food meal is both tasty and heart healthy.