Positive Facts of Fast Food

Fast food often gets a bad reputation for being high in fat, calories and sodium. Some of the obvious appeal of eating fast food includes convenience and cost, but many fast-food chains are also altering their menus to appeal to a more health-conscious consumer. Although most foods are OK to eat as an occasional treat, some fast-food menu options are better choices than others.

Nutrition Value Availability

A positive aspect of fast-food chains compared to some other more formal eateries is the availability of nutrition facts for their food. Having the knowledge about what is in the foods you are eating may help you make more informed and healthier decisions.

Changes in Cooking Techniques

Another positive change in the fast-food world is the availability of foods prepared with healthier methods. Some changes are only a small step in the right direction, such as using vegetable oil instead of lard to fry foods, while other changes result in a significantly healthier food, such as grilled chicken breast or broiled fish.

Healthier Alternatives

In addition to foods prepared in lower-fat ways, other healthier options have been added to many fast food menus. For example, the availability of fresh salads, low-fat yogurt, fruit cups and wheat buns can replace some of the higher fat and lower fiber meal options. Nonetheless, these healthy choices have the ability to take a wrong turn when paired with unhealthy selections, such as fried chicken and high-fat dressing on the salads, cookies, candies or high-sugar granola mixed into the yogurt or whipped toppings on the fruit. Stick with the food in its most natural form to get the highest nutritional benefit from it.

Children's Meals

Fast food often seems like a quick solution for families with small children and working parents, but trying to instill healthy eating habits in young lives can be a challenge at fast food chains. Luckily, healthier kid-friendly alternatives are becoming more available. For example, low-fat milk is an option in place of sugary sodas. Apple slices can be chosen instead of high-fat french fries. The positive side of fast-food restaurants can go beyond the cost and convenience factors with a little effort in choosing the healthier options on the menus.