You are behind the wheel cruising down the freeway, when suddenly it happens: Your stomach grumbles with hunger. But all you see is fast food and convenience stores screaming at you with ads of fatty or sugary foods, and you know you should eat healthy. So what are the options? Well all across America, the face of fast-food is changing. Just because it is quick doesn't mean it can't be healthy; It is all about self-control and the choices you make when you order. To help, here are the best types of restaurants to stop at while you are on the road, and some of them may even surprise you.
Asian food: When you hear Asian food, you may think of fried eggrolls and greasy noodles, but there are healthy options on almost every Asian menu. Order a tofu dish with steamed vegetables, or stir-fry chicken and broccoli, and you'll find yourself with a meal lower in fat and higher in vitamins. If you can opt for brown rice, you add fiber into the mix. Just watch out for the breaded meats, deep fried noodles and high-sodium sauces.
Author recommends: Noodles and Company - Whole wheat noodles and fresh vegetables.
The Chicken Joint: Although the menu incorporates just one type of meat, it can be hard to decide how you want it. Chicken restaurants can be the healthiest option for the traveler as long as you get the skinless grilled options and not the breaded deep-fried ones. Ask for a small order of barbeque chicken legs or a skinless chicken breast sandwich, and you will save on the calories. Don't fall for the heavy sides like buttery potatoes or coleslaw, and opt for corn on the cob or a baked potato.
Author recommends: Chik-a-Fila - Most menu items don't exceed 500 calories.
The Buffet: The serve yourself restaurant can be detrimental to your waistline, but only if you let it. There are many buffet-style roadside chains that offer healthy salads, soups and hot food, and a great variety of it. Scoop large amounts of greens and raw vegetables to your plate and add a soup or a baked potato, and you will be too full to indulge in the creamy and greasy options. Then you can treat yourself with a low-fat frozen yogurt for dessert.
Author recommends: Fresh Choice or Sweet Tomato
Mexican food: Mexican food has a reputation for being heavy and full of fat. But if you read past the cheese enchiladas and the giant burrito, you will find plenty of healthy options on the menu. Look for the chicken soft tacos or the chile relleno, and you eat a filling meal without the guilt. If you can, choose black beans instead of refried and ask for extra veggies in place of the rice. And steer clear of the sour cream and guacamole, and replace it with salsa or pico de gallo. This way, you can make any Mexican meal a healthy one.
Author recommends: Chipotle - whole wheat tortillas and organic veggies.
Also healthy: Chevy's Tex Mex.
Sandwich shop: Believe it or not, a sandwich or bagel shop may be your best option for a healthy lunch. Most places offer a variety of breads and toppings, so you can get your vegetables, grains and protein in one meal. Order a lean turkey or chicken sandwich on whole wheat or multigrain, and choose mustard instead of mayo. Watch out for pre-made fillings like tuna or chicken salad, they are usually laden with fat. Complete the meal with a piece of fruit and you are on your way to a diet-friendly meal.
Author recommends: Panera bread: Yummy healthy sandwiches, soups and salads.
Also healthy: Subway, Au bon Pain and Einstein bagels
Smoothie Place: Since you are not getting much exercise in your car, maybe all you need is a liquid refresher to fill your belly. Smoothies are a good way to get your entire day's vitamins and minerals in one gulp. Choose fresh fruit and mix in low-fat yogurt and granola. Many places also offer healthy additives, like a protein boost or wheat grass shot. Just beware of the calorie count, as these large serving smoothies can equate the calories of a meal.
Author recommends: Jamba Juice: Low-sugar smoothies and several optional boosts.
Your regular burger joint: That's right, your favorite fast food chain is even adding healthy menu items to help you make better choices. You like McDonald's? Just order one cheeseburger, and on the side eat a salad or a parfait with granola, and opt for orange juice over soda. Fan of Burger King? Get a grilled chicken sandwich, hold the mayo and double up on the lettuce and tomato. Prefer Wendy's? There are a variety of good salad choices that you can side with a baked potato, skin and all.
With all the restaurants you pass on the freeway, there are plenty of healthy options to choose from. We have come to a point in the modern consumer age where you are likely to find what you are looking for, if you look in the right places. The customer is given a plethora of food choices and it is thier responsibility to make the healthy one. Use your common sense and the guidelines above to help you, and your health and waistline will thank you.