Fast Food Nutrition Guide Articles & Resources

McDonald's Fruit 'n Yogurt Parfait

Last summer McDonald's offered healthful Go Active! Happy Meals for Adults, which we loved. While the adult Happy Meals are no longer available, you can still enjoy premium salads along with other good options such as the Yogurt Parfait. This low-fat yogurt is mixed with strawberries and blueberries, granola on the side. The Yogurt Parfait can be eaten as breakfast or dessert--just make sure it doesn't follow a Big Mac.

Price: $ Calories: 160 Fat: 2 grams Carbs: 30 g

Wendy's Plain Hot Stuffed Baked Potato and Garden Side Salad

If you're watching your carbs, this Atkins-unfriendly choice may not be best for you. If low-carb isn't your thing, indulge, but remember to pass on the sour cream and opt for one packet of Country Crock spread. Add a Garden Side Salad with raw vegetables and reduced-fat ranch dressing for a filling lunch choice.

Price: $ Calories: 480 Fat: 15 g Carbs: 74 g

Burger King Fire-Grilled Shrimp Garden Salad

You can choose from either chicken or bite-size seasoned shrimp served in a plastic pouch to keep it warm and ready to pour over crisp greens, carrots and tomatoes. The shrimp is served hot, so the salad feels more like a meal than a side; but the shrimp is slightly rubbery. Drizzle with a fat-free dressing.

Price: $ Calories: 240 Fat: 10 g Carbs: 19 g

Taco Bell Ranchero Chicken Soft Taco (Fresco Style)

Taco Bell has jumped on the good-nutrition bandwagon with a new Fresco Style menu offering low-calorie, low-fat alternatives. We liked the soft taco--grilled chicken, lettuce and tomato topped with a fiesta salsa, served on a warm flour tortilla. Yon can have two of them and not go overboard on either price or calories.

Price: (2 tacos) $ Calories: 340 Fat: 9 g Carbs: 44 g

KFC Oven-Roasted Chicken Strips Meal

With this choice, you can enjoy the familiar flavor of KFC's fried chicken but without the fat. Three tender strips are served with the option of two side dishes. (Eat the chicken while it's hot; otherwise it's a little mushy.) We like the lightly seasoned rice and corn on the cob, which add up to a satisfying dinner.

Price: $4 Calories: 420 Fat: 7 g Carbs: 50 g

EATING ON THE GO

Tips for quick but healthful fast-food meals:

* Don't be afraid to get picky. Many restaurants are prepared to accommodate special requests like "hold the mayo" or even "without the bun." This can save you on calories and fat grams.

* Survey your options carefully. Choose smaller portions; for instance, if you really want fries, get small or even kid-size fries instead of supersize. And select grilled rather than feed foods. If you're ordering a salad, go for a low-fat dressing. Or save on calories by using a half portion of dressing.

* For more tips on eating nutritious fast food, check out the Guide to Healthy Restaurant Eating by Hope S. Warshaw, which gives nutritional information for more than 55 fast-food .D.