Can Fast Food Fit into Your Fitness Goals?

5 days ago

2 min read

Let’s be real—life is busy (that may be the understatement of the century).

It’s so busy that sometimes we’re left with one feasible option for a meal: fast food.

But don’t let fast food become an excuse to knock you off the rails of your wellness journey! There are many excellent, nutritious options available at popular fast food restaurants that can leave you full and energized without that sluggish feeling that typically accompanies fast food trips.

Here are my entree and side recommendations for four popular restaurants: Chick-fil-A, Wendy’s, Culver’s, and Panera Bread.

Chick-fil-A

Entrees

Grilled Nuggets
Spicy Southwest Salad
Cobb Salad

Sides

Side Salad
Fruit Cup
Kale Crunch Side

Wendy’s

Entrees

Grilled Chicken Wrap
Parmesan Caesar Salad
Apple Pecan Salad

Sides

Baked potato
Small Chili
Apple Bites

Culver’s

Entrees

Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no bun)
6pc Butterfly Shrimp
Cranberry Bacon Bleu Salad

Sides

Steamed Broccoli
Garden Side Salad
Coleslaw

Panera Bread

Entrees

Green Goddess Chicken Cobb Salad
Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich
Caesar Salad

Sides

Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
Fruit Cup
Apple or Banana

Tuck this list away, and the next time you find yourself staring down the order kiosk at a fast food restaurant, you’ll have several nutritious options at your fingertips.

If you’ve read my blog posts before, you know that I’m a firm believer that your fitness journey should fit your life, and this is just one way to make that happen. If you find realistic ways to incorporate wellness, movement, and nutrition into your schedule instead of stretching yourself too thin in unrealistic directions, you’ll be more likely to stay on course.

And always remember: One greasy cheeseburger or sugary scoop of ice cream isn’t going to ruin your health journey. “Cheat” meals are bound to happen, and don’t let them keep you from hopping back aboard your “goal train.”

Your health is about consistency, not perfection.

I hope this has served you well!

Amber Dabney Smith

Your Hope Dealer and Three-Part Fitness Coach