Read 7 fast food menu traps that sneak in hidden calories and fat.
It’s hard to avoid fast food. Not only are there chains everywhere you go, but let’s be real: Most of us are busy, don’t always have enough time to cook a family feast, and don’t want to spend money or time at a sit-down restaurant. And then there’s the fact that, fast food is simply delicious. And, although the word evokes unhealthy thoughts, there are many things that are actually not bad for you; you should know what to order and what to avoid. We recently interviewed Life Time Savage Personal Training leader and Nutrition Coach Kelsey Holgate and asked her about the tricky words and verbiage to watch out for on fast food menus. Here are 7 fast food menu pitfalls that add hidden calories quickly.
Items Labeled “Battered,” “Fried,” “Crispy,” or “Breaded”
The first thing you should look for? Things that say “battered”, “fried”, “crispy”, or “breaded”. “These are usually fried in oil, usually vegetable oil or seed oil,” says Holgate. These are ‘unhealthy’ fats and tend to raise cholesterol, but also inflammation.”
Items Labeled “Supreme” or “Deluxe”
No, it’s not your imagination. Fast food brands like to use the words “Supreme” and “Deluxe” to describe menu options. “These tend to have double, if not triple, the number of calories. Calories are a problem in themselves, but they’re also high in sodium,” he says.
Sauces and Condiments
Specialty sauces and condiments at fast food restaurants can be a slippery slope. “This is often done with seed oils or corn syrups. This will add extra calories and hidden sugars,” Holgate said.
Beverages, Especially Sweetened Coffee or “Leaves”
There are a lot of hidden calories in drinks, especially sugary iced coffees and drinks labeled as “soft drinks.” These are loaded with sugar and unnecessary carbohydrates. Often, these will spike your blood sugar and leave you with an energy crash in the afternoon,” says Holgate.
All “Value Meal” Options
Expensive meals may save you money, but they will likely add unnecessary calories and fat. “Also, more calories and twice the portion size,” he says.
Anything “Unlimited” or “All You Can Eat”
Anything “unlimited,” “unlimited,” or “all you can eat” can be tempting, but if you practice portion control, this can quickly become dangerous. “This works for bread, drinks, popcorn, etc. Calories are added before the meal is served,” Holgate said.
“Dishes”
Burrito bowls, salad bowls, or any type of dish can feel healthier than other menu options. But this is not always the case. “Some of them are high in carbohydrates because of the rice, beans, and chip toppings. You can add more calories and spike your blood sugar,” says Holgate.
Leah Groth
Leah Groth is an experienced shopping editor and reporter for Best Life and Eat This, Not That! bringing readers the best new finds, trends, and deals every week. Learn more about Leah
