Keto-Friendly Fast Food Options for Travelers
When traveling, maintaining a keto diet can be a challenge, especially when it comes to eating fast food. However, with some strategic choices and modifications, you can enjoy your favorite fast-food dishes while staying on track. This guide offers tips and options for popular fast-food chains that cater to keto dieters.
General Tips for a Keto-Friendly Fast Food
To make the most of your travels and adhere to a keto diet, it's important to focus on proteins and healthy fats. Avoid including foods that are high in carbohydrates such as bread and rice, as well as sugary sauces. Opt instead for items that contain healthy fats and proteins. Additionally, don't hesitate to request modifications to make your meal keto-friendly.
Popular Fast Food Chains and Keto Options
McDonald's
Burgers without the bun: Order a Big Mac or Quarter Pounder without the bun. You can ask for lettuce wraps instead. Salads: Opt for salads with grilled chicken but skip the croutons and use a low-carb dressing like ranch or Caesar.Burger King
Whopper without the bun: Just like with McDonald's, you can get a Whopper without the bun. Salads: Choose salads with grilled chicken and avoid high-carb dressings.Wendy's
Baconator without the bun: You can order this classic burger without the bun. Grilled Chicken Salad: Look for salads with grilled chicken and avoid croutons and dressings with sugar.Chipotle
Bowl with no rice or beans: Create a salad or bowl with your choice of protein like steak or chicken, cheese, guacamole, and salsa. Skip the rice and beans.Subway
Salad: Order a salad with your choice of protein, cheese, and plenty of veggies. Avoid the bread and high-carb dressings.Taco Bell
Power Menu Bowl: Order a Power Bowl without rice and beans. Choose chicken or steak and load up on cheese and guacamole. Tacos in a bowl: Ask for tacos served in a bowl without the shells.Starbucks
Protein boxes: Some locations offer protein boxes that include cheese, nuts, and hard-boiled eggs. Egg bites: The sous vide egg bites are a good option.Dunkin' Donuts
Egg and cheese sandwich without the bagel: Just ask for the egg and cheese without the bagel. Coffee with heavy cream: Choose coffee with heavy cream instead of milk.Snacks and Sides
Consider snacks such as nuts, which are readily available at many fast-food places. Cheese sticks can also be a good low-carb option, and guacamole or cheese dips can be enjoyed with veggies. Always check the nutritional information if available, as recipes and ingredients may change.
Additional Considerations
Never hesitate to customize your order to better fit your dietary needs. By being mindful of portion sizes, avoiding high-carb sides (like bread or rice), and opting for items rich in healthy fats and proteins, you can enjoy your fast-food meal while sticking to a keto diet. Always communicate with the staff about your dietary requirements and preferences to ensure your food is prepared to meet your needs.