By Christine McKinney, M.S., R.D., C.D.E. Provided by: Johns Hopkins University

Diabetes Day to Day

Fast Food Quiz: Can You Spot the Healthier Choices? Posted Tue, Oct 24, 2006, 5:13 pm PDT

70% of users found this article helpful.

We live in a fast-paced society, and eating on the run is inevitable. For many of us, the first thought that comes to mind when we want a quick bite to eat is usually fast food.

I always cover the topic of fast food with my clients. I want you, too, to know what I tell them: you can still eat fast food, but some choices are better than others. The better choice isn't always that obvious, however.

Quiz yourself. Choose the item you think is lower in calories, carbohydrates, and fat:

1. a. Dunkin' Donuts Croissant sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese

b. Dunkin' Donuts English muffin with ham, egg, and cheese

2. a. McDonald's Triple Thick Shake (16 oz.)

b. Wendy's Frosty (16 oz.)

3. a. KFC Original Recipe Chicken Sandwich

b. Boston Market Chicken Carver Sandwich

4. a. Burger King Whopper

b. Arby's Super Roast Beef Sandwich

5. a. Starbucks Cinnamon Chip Scone

b. Panera Chocolate Chip Muffin

Ready for the answers? They're given with their calories, carbs, and fat content, and the healthier choice appears in bold type.

1. b. (Croissant sandwich has 650 calories, 39 g carb, 45 g fat; English muffin has 310 calories, 34 g carb, 10 g fat)

2. b. (McDonald's shake has 580 calories, 94 g carb, 17 g fat; Wendy's shake has 435 calories, 73 g carb, 11 g fat)

3. a. (The KFC sandwich has 445 calories, 27 g carb, 27 g fat; the Boston market sandwich has 670 calories, 68 g carb, 33 g fat)


4. b. (The Whopper has 700 calories, 42 g carb, 52 g fat; the Super Roast Beef sandwich has 440 calories, 19 g carb, 48 g fat)

5. b. (The scone has 515 calories, 71 g carb, 23 g fat; the muffin has 240 calories, 36 g carb, 10 g fat)

Did any of these answers surprise you? It's possible to avoid a lot of calories, carbs, and fat by simply making different choices. Many people with diabetes struggle with weight, so reducing calories helps them with weight control.

Lower-carbohydrate options help to control blood glucose levels. People with diabetes also need to monitor their fat intake because they are more at risk for a stroke or heart attack.

What's the moral of this blog? Know what's in your favorite fast food choices. Check out Calorie King for nutrition information on the foods you eat.

 

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