Summary of 7 Healthy Burger King Orders, According to Dietitians:
Expert dietitians have revealed a list of healthy Burger King options that can be enjoyed whilst still adhering to a balanced and nutritious diet. These options include selecting meals that contain lean protein, opting for smaller meals or healthier side orders to manage calorie intake, being mindful of condiments that may add extra calories, and pairing the selection with water or unsweetened beverages to avoid added sugars. Recommendations for healthy menu items include the Beef Taco with salad and apple sauce, regular hamburger, Impossible Whopper with no mayo, Whopper Jr. with a side salad, Chicken Fries, side salad, and a grilled chicken sandwich without mayo.
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Healthy Choices at Burger King: RD-Approved Options for Your Next Visit
Making healthy choices at fast-food restaurants can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the help of registered dietitians, we’ve compiled a list of healthy choices you can make the next time you visit Burger King. By considering factors like protein content, portion size, customization options, and sugar-free drink options, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal that aligns with your nutrition goals.
Choose Lean Protein and Watch Your Portion Sizes
One critical factor to consider when making healthy choices at Burger King is protein content. It’s essential to choose options that include lean protein, helping you stay satisfied longer. Additionally, portion control is your ally when consuming fast-food. Select smaller-sized meals or opt for healthier sides to manage calorie intake.
Ashley Harpst, RD, suggests going for a Beef Taco with salad and apple sauce for lunch at Burger King. It’s a small meal, but the salad and apple sauce increase the fiber in the meal. High fiber content helps keep you fuller for a more extended period.
Opt for Healthier Menu Options
Choose healthier options that align with your nutrition goals. Jessie Carpenter, MA, MS, RD, LD, recommends the regular hamburger since it has a low calorie and fat content, making it an excellent option if you’re watching your weight and sodium intake.
Rhyan Geiger, RDN, suggests an Impossible Whopper with no mayo. The Impossible Burger has less sodium, less saturated fat, and zero cholesterol, making it a more optimal option than the traditional Whopper.
The Whopper Jr. is also a healthier option to consume at Burger King, owing to its lower sodium content. Wan Na Chun, MPH, RD, suggests going for the Whopper Jr. to limit your sodium intake. It’s an essential consideration if you have chronic health conditions like cardiovascular and kidney diseases.
Felicia Newell, RD, MSc, suggests going for a Whopper Jr. with a side salad instead. This option is under 500 calories, has a reasonable balance of carbs and protein, and is relatively lower in sodium compared to other menu items.
Pair Your Meal with a Healthier Side Option
Jessie Hulsey, RD, LD, recommends the Chicken Fries as a more nutrient-dense option than most of the beef choices. Its low calorie and saturated fats content make it a healthier choice. To make your meal more balanced, consider pairing Chicken Fries with a side salad.
Crystal Scott, RD, suggests going for a side salad instead of fries to increase your vegetable intake. Be cautious about dressings and opt for a lighter option.
Customize Your Order
Customizing your order allows you to control the meal’s nutritional content. Crystal Scott recommends going for a grilled chicken sandwich without mayo. It contains fewer calories and less fat. You can further customize this option by choosing whole-grain buns when available and adding extra vegetables.
Conclusion
Fast-food restaurants like Burger King can still be part of a balanced and nutritious diet. By choosing lean protein, right portion sizes, healthy sides, and customizing your meal, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal that aligns with your nutritional goals. With the help of these registered dietitians and their recommendations, you can make healthier choices the next time you visit Burger King.
