Fast food is food that can be prepared and served quickly.  Thus, fast food could be simple foods such as carrots (dipped in humus or other dips), celery (coated with peanut butter for example), or even grilling meat served with a salad to make a complete quick meal.  However we often think of fast food in association with going to a ‘fast food restaurant’.  Healthy choices then become important.  Avoid foods that are fried (get baked or grilled). Ask for bread or meats without added butter, mayonnaise, dressings, cheese, or sauces.  Maybe drink a glass of water before eating, and ask for water with the meal instead of soda or juices.  And don’t eat too quickly – many of us race to eat a fair share of a bowl of food (French Fries, etc) in the middle of the table.  Smaller portions should also be selected (don’t go for the larger size because it costs little more).

Schools are now working on improving our choices of fast food selections.  The Michelle Obama “Let’s Move” campaign is also scrutinizing and trying to improve on this subject, including restricting access to fast food near schools, providing affordable healthy choices to all Americans, and recognizing the negative influence of fast food TV ads (see link below).

Examples for healthier eating can be found on various websites (also sited below).