Fast food isn’t a “healthy” option to turn to regularly when dieting or trying to lose weight. However, some menu options at popular chains like Popeyes are better than others in terms of calorie count and nutritional profiles. After all, any weight loss plan needs to be sustainable to see long-term results, and completely depriving yourself of the foods you love the most can seriously backfire. So when it’s time to indulge, we’ve got the best Popeyes order for weight loss that’s dietitian-approved. It’ll satisfy your cravings without derailing your efforts.
If you’re at Popeyes for breakfast, consider the Bacon Biscuit.
Nutrition (per meal):
Calories: 400
Fat: 25 g (saturated fat: 12 g)
Sodium: 780 mg
Crabs: 37 g (Fiber: 3 g, Sugar: 2 g)
Protein: 8 g
Popeyes Bacon Biscuit Is Best Breakfast Option for Weight Loss, Says Jessie Anderson, M.Sc., Dt.P., CSSD, LD, ACSM EP-Ccertified specialist in sports dietetics High-level nutrition coaching.
“Carbohydrates [are] “The body’s primary source of energy; the bacon biscuit contains a moderate portion of carbohydrates along with 3g of fiber to promote endurance, focus and energy to start your day strong,” says Anderson. “Moderate levels of protein help promote satiety and fullness between meals.”
Keep in mind that the bacon biscuit contains 12g of saturated fat. According to the American Heart Association (AHA)Eating too much saturated fat can increase the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood. This, in turn, could increase your risk of stroke and heart disease. The AHA recommends limiting saturated fat to just 5 to 6 percent of your daily calories.
If you’re at Popeyes for lunch, opt for the Kids Tender Classic with a side of red beans and rice.
Nutrition (per meal):
Calories: 400
Fat: 23 g (saturated fat: 8 g)
Sodium: 1,220 mg
Crabs: 34 g (Fiber: 7 g, Sugar: 0 g)
Protein: 21 g
Ordering from Popeyes with weight loss in mind means exploring the kids’ menu. The Tender Classic is 150 calories and provides 13 grams of protein. The Red Bean and Rice Side is 250 calories in a regular-sized serving and offers eight grams of protein and six grams of fiber, both of which are essential for weight loss and weight management to promote satiety.
“Kids meals are a great way to moderate portion sizes while still enjoying your favorite fast-casual items,” Anderson says. “The classic Popeyes Kids Tender Meal is low in saturated fat and contains 0 grams of trans fat and added sugars… [adding] A regular side of red beans and rice makes it a complete meal, providing additional protein and fiber to promote sustained energy, focus, immune support and heart health.
Tips for ordering healthier meals at Popeyes:
- Plan ahead. Most fast food chains make their nutrition information readily available online. Popeyes is no exception. So before you head to Popeyes, be sure to check out the nutrition information to help reduce “impulse buying.” Anderson recommends opting for a meal with less than 6 grams of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, less than 6 grams of added sugar, a minimum of 3 grams to 4 grams of fiber, and 15 grams to 20 grams of protein. She also warns, “Be mindful of the sodium content, as it can add up quickly.”
- Put your sauces aside. Sauces are a surefire way to add unnecessary calories to your meal.[Sauces can] “Fish dishes contain high amounts of fat and added sugars, which can add up quickly,” Anderson says. “When you can, ask for dressing and sauces on the side and use them sparingly.” She recommends Bayou Buffalo, Mardis Gras Mustard or Creole Cocktail.
- Divide your meal. Consider sharing your meal with a friend or companion to cut calories while still satisfying your fast food cravings. “Dining out with friends allows you to share a higher-calorie meal,” Anderson says. “However, if you’re dining alone, ask for an extra to-go box, split your meal in half, and place it inside. Out of sight and out of mind, save the other half for a later meal.”
- Choose calorie-free drinks. Beverages are another sneaky way to add unwanted “empty” calories to your meal. “Opt for calorie-free and decaf beverages to help you stay hydrated and moderate your calorie intake when eating out,” Anderson encourages.
- Order plant-based sides. In addition to the usual sides, many fast food chains and restaurants are ordering plant-based options like fruit cups or veggies. “Ask to swap out your traditional side for a high-fiber, plant-based option: Popeyes red beans and rice, coleslaw, jalapeño(s),” Anderson says. “These options have more volume while being lower in calories, which helps promote satisfaction and fullness while moderating calorie intake.”
Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is the Associate Editor of Mind + Body at Eat This, Not That!, overseeing the M+B channel and providing readers with engaging topics on fitness, wellness, and self-care. Learn more about Alexa
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