Monday, July 29, 2013

Are Fast Food Salads Healthy?


                                                  
Anytime we think of the world "salad", we automatically think healthy. Well, I'm here to inform you that unfortunately all salads are NOT good for you. If anything, most of the salads from fast food chains and restaurants start off healthy, but then all the extra "tasty" ingredients, cause the salad to be on calorie overload. Just like with any type of propaganda, ordering a salad is supposed to a healthy item on the menu, but in actuality, there's something hidden behind it. Think about it for a second......... It starts off with chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, and maybe croutons and salad dressing to top it off. Now, add bacon, fried chicken, bread crumbs, and an overload of your favorite dressing (mine is Thousand Island fat-free). Most salad dressings are high in sodium. Now you have just created a salad that could be upwards of 1000 calories! CRAZY I KNOW! All is not lost however! There are many substitutions that you can do to make your salad healthy. Here are a few.....

1) Order dark green lettuce (it's filled with plenty of vitamins)
2) Make sure your vegetables are fresh
3) If possible, see if nutrition content is available
4) Order from the "Healthy Choice" menu, as they have lighter meals with lower calories
5) Watch how much dressing you apply to your salad. Asking for low sodium dressing (red wine or vinaigrette) is great
6) Opt for grilled chicken instead breaded or fried chicken
7) You can even add fresh fruits for a sweet taste

So, next time you order a salad from a fast food place or a restaurant or you're making one at home, be sure to remember these tips so you're salad remains "healthy". 

-Stay Healthy, Stay Happy


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