Business Travelers: Avoid Fast Food Traps with Smart Choices

May 5
18:56

2024

Karen Hiser

Karen Hiser

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Navigating the fast food landscape as a frequent traveler can be challenging, but with the right knowledge, you can make healthier choices without sacrificing convenience. This article explores how to sidestep common pitfalls in fast food and highlights better options available, particularly focusing on popular chains like Panera and Au Bon Pain.

Understanding the Fast Food Landscape

In the past decade,Business Travelers: Avoid Fast Food Traps with Smart Choices Articles the fast food industry has seen a significant shift towards offering healthier options. According to a study by the Hudson Institute, restaurants that expanded their lower-calorie options saw a 10.9% increase in customer traffic, compared to a 14.7% decline for those that didn’t. This trend reflects a growing consumer demand for healthier meal choices on the go.

However, not all "healthy" menu options are created equal. Many items that appear nutritious can be laden with hidden calories, fats, and sugars. It's essential to look beyond the marketing and understand the nutritional content of what you're eating.

Making Smart Choices at Popular Chains

Panera Bread

Panera Bread is often lauded for its healthier options compared to traditional fast food outlets. Here’s how you can navigate its menu:

  • Opt for: Smoked Turkey Breast on Sourdough (430 calories, 14g fat, 2.5g saturated fat, 44g carbs, 29g protein). Customize it by skipping the mayo to reduce fat intake.
  • Avoid: Tuna Salad on Artisan Multigrain (810 calories, 42g fat, 6g saturated fat, 75g carbs, 31g protein). High in calories and fat, primarily due to the mayo-based dressing.

Au Bon Pain

Au Bon Pain offers a variety of salads that can be a healthy choice if dressed wisely:

  • Opt for: Thai Chicken Salad (140 calories, 2.5g fat, 16g protein). It’s light and provides a good protein boost.
  • Avoid: Using high-calorie dressings like Blue Cheese (370 calories, 39g fat). Instead, choose Fat-free Raspberry Vinaigrette (80 calories, 0g fat).

General Tips for Eating at Fast Food Restaurants

  • Check Nutrition Information: Many chains now provide calorie counts and nutritional information on their menus or online.
  • Customize Your Order: Ask for dressings and sauces on the side, and opt for grilled items over fried.
  • Watch Portion Sizes: Opt for smaller sizes or split a dish to keep calorie intake in check.

Conclusion

While fast food restaurants are often associated with unhealthy choices, many now offer healthier alternatives that cater to the nutritionally conscious traveler. By being informed and making deliberate choices, you can enjoy convenient meals without compromising your health.

For more insights into maintaining a healthy lifestyle while traveling, consider subscribing to our Travel Fitness Newsletter.

For further reading on making healthy choices on the road, visit Healthline’s Nutrition Tips.

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