We all know it: fast food isn’t very good for us. It’s full of saturated fat, cholesterol and calories…not to mention something called trans fatty acids, which are dangerous types of fat that are unnaturally made (contain an extra hydrogen) so as to preserve food longer. They can quickly lead to high blood pressure and a greater risk for heart attack and stroke.

Photo by pocketburgers.com

You might ask….why would I care about something like that right now? Well, it’s a proven fact that the food choices we make today directly affect the state of our health tomorrow….or even decades later. Your body doesn’t forget about what or how you ate when you were a teen once you’ve reached 50; it will be more susceptible to disease.

However, some of us really like the taste of a greasy burger or french fry. Chick-Fil-A, anyone? How about Wendy’s? The classic McDonald’s? And the list goes on…there are those times when you’re on a trip and it’s your only option; carting large amounts of food around is inconvenient and is still encouraging snacky food like crackers and chips. They’re cheap and portable. Because who wants to try to transport perishables! But if you’re going to eat it, here are some key things to remember, ladies. It’s always OK to splurge and enjoy yourself- but it’s all about being smart and knowing what you’re putting in your body.

Keys to eating fast food:

1. Watch portion size; instead of a large, get a small.

2. Avoid fried options and stick to broiled, grilled or baked

3. Go light on or completely avoid sauces and dressings; they kill any trace of nutrients in salads, baked potatoes and other seemingly healthy items

4. Ask for nutrition facts when you’re on your next trip at every fast food place you stop; the business is required by law to provide it. Then, store it in your glove compartment and whip it out when you want to see what your best options are.

-Kristin