Fast Food Doesn't Have To Be Unhealthy

Everywhere you look there are fast food restaurants.  It seems that everyone is short on time these days, especially when it comes to preparing our own meals.  Fast food restaurants have made it very convenient to buy food rather than make it ourselves.  Fast food is often high in calories, fat, sodium, and cholesterol.  However, if we knew how to save time on preparing our own food, would we choose to do that instead of buy fast food? 

Just because you are short on time doesn’t mean your health should suffer.  There are many strategies you can use to prepare your own food fast.  First, it’s important to have a well-stocked kitchen.  Try to always have the following items on hand:  tortillas, pitas, yogurt, cereal, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, cheese and a well-stocked spice rack.  Secondly, get organized.  Think about what meals will be prepared for that week.  Try to use ingredients that can be used in several different recipes.  Thirdly, try to combine meals that are served hot and cold.  For example, broiled chicken can be eaten for dinner, while a chicken salad sandwich (using the same broiled chicken) can be served cold for lunch the next day.  Additionally, choose cooking methods wisely.  As chicken is baking in the oven, sauté vegetables, and/or use rice cooker for brown rice.  This way all components of the meal will be ready at the same time.  Finally, cook in batches.  Extra food can be frozen or reheated the next day. 

Unfortunately, sometimes we can still end up in a situation where homemade food may not be available, for instance, when we travel.  Luckily, modern technology has allowed us to gather information quickly and seamlessly.  Many fast food restaurants’ nutrition information is available online.  Additionally, there are several phone applications that display fast food restaurant nutrition facts right at your fingertips.  Therefore, you can review your menu options before stepping foot inside the restaurant.

Another great option for fast food is meals from Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine TM.  The meals are fresh and ready to eat; and much healthier than fast food restaurant options.  Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine TM follows strict nutrition guidelines to support individuals’ in their health goals.   The Healthy Mix, Vegetarian, Low Carb, and Gluten Free menus are available online at freshnfitcuisine.com.