Expert personal trainers reveal their go-to fast-food orders for staying lean.
Fast food gets a bad reputation on many levels. Some people complain that the quality of fast food has significantly declined over time, while others turn their noses up at it for being super unhealthy. While these generalizations might not be all wrong, they aren’t totally right either. Fun fact: My personal trainer and pretty much every trainer I follow on social media incorporate fast food into their diets. But here’s the caveat: They aren’t ordering triple-patty bacon cheeseburgers with a large order of fries. If you want to indulge in a little fast-food action while sticking to a healthy diet, there are some expert-recommended menu options. We asked Life Time Savage Personal Training Leader and Nutrition Coach Kelsey Holgate about her go-to orders. Here are 5 fast-food orders personal trainers actually eat to stay lean.
Chick-fil-A Grilled Nuggets
Sure, Chick-fil-A’s OG nuggets are delicious, with that crispy, tasty breading. But have you tried the grilled nuggets? My son recently bit into one of mine and was shocked by how delicious it was. They are also significantly healthier. “Grilled is the best option when it comes to nuggets because they have just protein without the breading. Skip the dipping sauce, though,” says Holgate.
Iced Coffee
Coffee drinks and lattes are calorie bombs. However, you can doctor up an iced coffee to taste amazing without all the junk. “I use unsweetened almond milk with light syrups, add a packet of stevia, and bring my own protein powder to mix in it,” says Holgate about her hack.
Salads
One of my personal go-to orders at fast food places, especially Chick-fil-A? Salads. Holgate agrees. “Ask for dressing on the side, grilled protein option, and opt for cheese or nuts on the side, or pick one or the other,” she says.
Egg Muffin or Omelet
Not sure what to order for breakfast? Holgate recommends an egg muffin or omelet. “Ask for egg whites vs eggs. Add in more veggies. Skip the bacon or sausage due to higher fat and sodium levels,” she says.
Swap Out Your Burger Patty
If you want to eat a burger, Holgate recommends some modifications. “Make it more friendly by doing grilled chicken or a bison burger with lettuce or 1/2 bun. Skip the cheese, but add the tomato, mustard, and pickles,” she says. You can also omit the bun altogether.
Leah Groth
