Smart Choices to Reduce Fast Food Calories Before Your Wedding

Apr 3
13:43

2024

Kathleen Terrana

Kathleen Terrana

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In the whirlwind of wedding preparations, from selecting photographers to sending out invitations and managing gift registries, the convenience of fast food becomes a siren call. However, with the big day approaching, many couples aim to look and feel their best, often including shedding a few pounds. Making healthier choices at fast food restaurants can help you maintain your diet without sacrificing too much of your time or taste buds.

Understanding Fast Food's Caloric Pitfalls

Fast food is notorious for its high calorie,Smart Choices to Reduce Fast Food Calories Before Your Wedding Articles saturated, and trans fat content, which can be detrimental to anyone's diet, especially for those gearing up for their wedding. A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that from 2013-2016, 36.6% of adults consumed fast food on a given day. The convenience of these meals often comes with a hefty price in terms of nutritional value.

Foods to Avoid

The main culprits contributing to high calorie and fat intake in fast food include:

  • Pizza
  • Cheeseburgers
  • Hot dogs
  • French fries
  • Fried mozzarella sticks
  • Onion rings
  • Fried chicken
  • Fried fish

In essence, steering clear of fried foods is a good rule of thumb. Some menu items can contain more than 1,000 calories and exceed the recommended saturated fat intake for several days. For instance, cheese fries with ranch dressing, movie theater popcorn with artificial butter, and stuffed potato skins can be particularly egregious offenders. Similarly, a single slice of cake from The Cheesecake Factory can be a caloric bombshell.

Healthier Fast Food Alternatives

When the fast food craving hits, opt for these lower-calorie, lower-fat options:

  • Subway's "7 subs with 6 grams of fat or less" (6-inch)
  • Wendy's Grilled Chicken Sandwich
  • McDonald's Fruit 'n Yogurt Parfait with granola
  • Taco Bell's chicken soft taco, bean burrito, or chicken/steak gordita/fiesta burrito

Smart Snacking at the Mall

While shopping for wedding essentials, make conscious choices at the food court:

  • Choose a cup of minestrone soup over cream-based soups like Boston clam chowder.
  • Select a Slim & Trim Orange-Vanilla smoothie at Smoothie King instead of higher-calorie options.
  • Bypass Cinnabon and go for a butter-free pretzel at Auntie Anne's to save significant calories.

Tips for Staying on Track

  • Plan ahead: Before you go out, check the nutritional information of restaurant menus online.
  • Portion control: Opt for smaller sizes or share a meal to reduce calorie intake.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink water instead of sugary beverages to help control hunger and avoid extra calories.

By making informed choices and exercising a bit of restraint, you can enjoy the convenience of fast food without derailing your pre-wedding diet. Remember, moderation and balance are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, even during the busiest of times.

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