Learn the 7 pitfalls of fast food menus that hide hidden calories and fat.
It’s hard to avoid fast food. Not only are there chains everywhere you go, but let’s face it: many of us are very busy, don’t always have enough time to prepare a family feast, and also don’t want to spend money or time at a sit-down restaurant. Then there’s the fact that fast food is simply delicious. And, while the term brings up unhealthy thoughts, there are many things that aren’t actually bad for your health; you just need to know what to order and what to avoid. We recently consulted Wild for life Personal Training Leader and Nutrition Coach Kelsey Holgate and asked him about sneaky terms and verbiage to watch out for on fast food menus. Here are 7 pitfalls in fast food menus that quickly add hidden calories.
Items labeled as “battered,” “fried,” “crispy,” or “breaded”
The first thing to watch out for? Items that say “breaded”, “fried”, “crispy” or “breaded”. “These are often fried in oil, which is often found in vegetable oils or seed oils,” says Holgate. “These are “unhealthy” fats that tend to increase cholesterol, but also inflammation.
Items labeled “Supreme” or “Deluxe”
No, it’s not your imagination. Fast food brands love to use the terms “Supreme” and “Deluxe” to describe menu options. “These often contain double or even triple the number of calories. The calories are a problem in themselves, but they also contain more sodium,” she says.
Sauces and condiments
Special sauces and condiments at fast food restaurants can be a slippery slope. “These are often made with seed oils or corn syrups. These will add extra calories and hidden sugars,” says Holgate.
Beverages, including sweetened coffees or “refreshers”
There are a lot of hidden calories in drinks, especially sugary iced coffees and drinks labeled as “refreshing.” “These are loaded with unnecessary sugar and carbs. Often these will spike your blood sugar and leave you with an afternoon energy crash,” says Holgate.
All “Value Meal” options
Value meals can save you money, but they will likely add unnecessary calories and fat. “Again, more calories and double the portion size,” she says.
Anything “unlimited” or “at will”
Anything “bottomless,” “all you can eat” or “all you can eat” can be tempting, but if you don’t control portions, it can quickly become dangerous. “This goes for bread, drinks, popcorn, etc. Calories added before the meal is even served,” says Holgate.
“Balls”
Burrito bowls, salad bowls, and any type of bowl may seem healthier than other menu options. But this is not always the case. “Some of them have more carbs because of the rice, beans and chips. You can add a lot of calories and raise your blood sugar,” says Holgate.
Lea Groth
Leah Groth is an experienced editor and reporter for Best Life and Eat This, Not That! bringing readers the best new finds, trends and deals every week. Learn more about Léa
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