Over the last several years, fast food establishments have started coming out with ‘healthier’ options for diet conscious consumers. Nutrition information is readily available at most places now and many even show caloric content right on the menu.  I understand there’s a place for fast food. Some of us lead hectic lives with barely any time to breathe and a trip to Subway, McDonald’s or Taco Bell can provide a much needed time saver. The improvements made to these products are great and all, but they aren’t nearly as epic as one would think.  I often wonder how many people truly believe these are acceptable alternatives to a healthy meal.

I’m not here to judge you. I have a busy life of my own and a soft spot for cheeseburgers and Taco Bell. The thing is,  if you’re going to eat fast food and no one can change your mind (for whatever reason) then limit yourself and order wisely. Practice a safe Fast Food Diet by doing the proper research. Go ahead and order off the ‘diet’ menu and choose the most health conscious options available. Keep in mind, though, that these foods often contain excess amounts of sodium, fat, high fructose corn syrup, hormones, pesticides and preservatives. “Low calorie” does not mean healthy.

When it comes down to it, leaving out calories isn’t a permanent fix, but a lifestyle change is. Besides that, some people will actually retain weight if their body feels like it’s at risk for malnourishment. It does this by slowing your metabolism and storing food longer in order to obtain the most nutrients possible. However, if you limit your calorie intake enough, you can usually lose weight while eating nearly anything. If weight loss is your only goal then by all means, eat nothing but Sour Patch Kids and Taco Bell’s Fresco Tacos for a month. I’m sure you’ll lose a few pounds.

However, if you like the idea of proper brain and body function, you may want to consider sticking to higher quality, healthier foods. Personally, if I’m craving a taco (or a cheeseburger), I’d rather make it at home with high quality ingredients and know I’m not filling myself with such all-around grossness. This might mean occasionally going over my calorie limit (and sure, it’s not nearly as convenient) but sometimes quality is more important than quantity.

(Image via seattleiswell)