One sure way to know what you’re getting at the fast-food counter, nutrition experts say, is to consult the restaurant’s nutrition guide. A little knowledge can help you plan your menu selections before you succumb to those yummy-smelling French fries.
These guides, provided by several fast-food chains, contain so much information that they can be daunting. But remember that you don't have to weigh every single value. Zelman advises making choices based on the number of calories and amount of fat. Simply seeing the difference between a Big Mac and a regular hamburger -- 590 vs. 280 calories, and 34 vs. 10 grams of fat -- might tip the scale when you go to place your order. And don't forget, you can ask for nutrition guides at the restaurants you visit, or find them online.
And when in doubt about what's good and what's not at your favorite fast-food haunt, check out WebMD Weight Loss Clinic "Recipe Doctor" Elaine Magee's fast food tips in "Help, I'm at a Fast Food Chain!" and on her message board "Recipe Doctor Elaine Magee, RD".
Published May 14, 2003
Medically reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD
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