Lose weight without giving up cravings? See these fast food options that should fit your diet!

When it comes to losing weight, many of us think about changing the way we consume food.

Some even think we have to say goodbye to our favourite fast-food joints.

What if you could still enjoy a trip to Macca's without derailing your diet?


With a bit of knowledge and self-control, select items from Macca's are not only satisfying but should also align with your health goals.

Nutrition expert and author Elizabeth Shaw shared her insights that might change the way people view fast food.

As a working mum of two, Shaw fully understood the 'rat race of the mealtime rush' and the appeal of a quick, convenient meal.

However, she also emphasised the importance of making informed choices, especially when it comes to protein intake.


compressed-maccas.jpeg
Some menu items in McDonald's should help people hit their daily protein intake. Image Credit: Pexels/Ready Made


In an article she wrote for Eat This, Not That!, McDonald's offers several high-protein options that could fit into a balanced diet.

Macca's Deluxe McCrispy, which may not be 'healthy' at first glance, packs about 27 grams of protein—more than some pre-bottled protein shakes on the market.

The addition of lettuce and tomatoes should also add fibre to the diet.

Shaw also suggested skipping mayonnaise to cut down on calories and watching your salt intake for the rest of the day.


However, before you rush out to grab that burger, Shaw warned her readers.

'Although a menu item may contain protein, it doesn't necessarily mean it's good for you,' she stated.

Other nutrients, like fibre, saturated fat, and sodium, also come into play.

Keep an eye on saturated fat intake, which should be less than 22 grams per day.

The Quarter Pounder Deluxe is another high-protein option, as it contains 25 grams of protein.

Cut 200 calories off the meal by removing the cheese and mayo.


For those who want to forego beef, the 10-piece Chicken McNuggets option offers 23 grams of protein.

The 20-piece Chicken McNuggets provides 56 grams of protein, which is at the high end of the average recommended dietary allowance.

Shaw also suggested taking the nuggets home and adding them to a big salad for a complete, nutritious meal.

Australian nutritionist Susie Burrell also weighed in on the topic.

She recommended the Wholemeal Grilled Chicken Snack Wrap or a McChicken burger for those seeking healthier options.

Burrell also advised ditching the sauce to cut down on calories.


Expert's best high-protein meals at McDonald's.jpg
Here are some other options people can get from Macca's. Source: Elizabeth Shaw/news.com.au


She also highlighted some of the 'worst' options, such as the BBQ Bacon Angus, which is loaded with fat, calories, and sodium.

So, next time you're craving a quick bite but don't want to compromise your diet, remember that it's possible to make smarter choices even at your local Macca's.

Be mindful of your nutritional intake, and don't be afraid to customise your order to suit your dietary needs.
Key Takeaways

  • A nutrition expert shared some high-protein options from McDonald's that should suit weight loss diet plans.
  • They recommended the Deluxe McCrispy for containing 27 grams of protein.
  • Other McDonald's high-protein meal options included the Quarter Pounder Deluxe and 10-Piece Chicken McNuggets.
  • Australian nutritionist Susie Burrell also weighed in on healthier McDonald's choices and warned against high-fat, high-calorie items.
Have you found any fast-food items that helped you with your health goals? Share your experiences with us in the comments section below!
 
Sponsored

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×