Sometimes, there just aren’t options. We don’t always have time to pack Tupperware full of brown rice and chicken breast. We may even be out in the middle of the night, and find ourselves hungry, with few options. Everywhere you go, there is a McDonald’s, with a plethora of food options for every palate. I’m not going to tell you that it’s okay to eat a Big Mac meal, but what I will tell you is what options at McDonald’s aren’t as bad for your physique.
Breakfast:
Oatmeal: This packs 290 calories, with 5 grams protein, 2.5 grams of fat, and 62 g carbs, of which the sugar can be reduced by not putting as much brown sugar in there. They provide this option all day and it is whole grain. I grab milk on the side and mix it in to provide some extra protein. It costs about 3 dollars in total.
Egg McMuffin: 290 calories, with 16 grams of protein, 12 grams of fat, and 22 grams of carbs. The McMuffin provides a good dose of protein, and most of the fat is from the egg, so it’s not terrible. At 300 calories, the breakfast burrito isn’t an entirely bad option either.
Multigrain Bagel with Egg, Bacon, Tomato, etc: 520 calories, with 21 grams of protein,18 grams of fat, and 67 grams of slower digesting carbs. The fat is a bit high, but this is something that will probably fill you up. If you really want to cut down on the calories, you can nix the bacon.
Other:
Chipotle Grilled Snack Wrap has 230 calories, with 6 grams of fat and 15 grams of protein. Any grilled chicken option on the menu is really your best option, including the burgers, and salads. They offer the grilled Tuscan Salad (330 calories), the grilled Mighty Caesar Entrée Salad (350 calories), and the grilled Cashew Teriyaki salad (300 calories).
A Cheeseburger : has 300 calories, with 12 grams of fat, 33 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of protein. Even better is the hamburger, which has 50 less calories, and less fat. For me, these and the grilled snack wraps are a go to.
The Vanilla cone is not a god awful option, as it only has 230 calories…not good calories, but we all have cravings. The yogurt parfait has just as much sugar, and has just 30 less calories.
Calories add up quickly when you add things to any one of these food options. Add fries and a Coke, and you’ve doubled your calories.
Happy eating!
Written by: Manny Dhillon, a CanFitPro certified personal trainer, and a BCAK certified active rehabilitation specialist. Visit vanfitness.com for more health and fitness tips.
*Disclaimer: I am not a nutritionist or a dietitian. The statements above are simply a product of my personal experiences and are strictly for entertainment purposes. Please speak with a physician prior to employing any advice provided here.