Question:
My family’s schedule is so hectic that we often find ourselves going through the fast food drive-thru for dinner. Can these foods still be part of a nutritious diet for my kids?
Answer:
You’re not alone! This is a reality for many families. The good news is that more and more fast food restaurants are offering more choices for nutrition conscious families. Many now offer fruit slices and fruit cups, salads, soups, baked potatoes, yogurt parfaits and low-fat regular and flavored milk in cool containers. Set some “food rules” for your family and stick to them when you go through the drive-thru too. For example, “we drink milk with meals.” It’s also a good idea to negotiate ahead of time what children’s order will be instead of waiting to decide at the drive up window. For example, tonight plan to have fruit dippers instead of fries. Lastly, apply the same guidelines of balance, variety and moderation that you would at home. Aim for all Five Food Groups. Order a salad or lettuce and tomato on sandwiches for vegetables. Go light. Order toppings for foods like baked potatoes on the side, choose grilled and broiled sandwiches instead of fried and ask for light dressings for salads. Lastly, hold the super-size portions. Regular portions are more than adequate for most adults and children. Fast food is definitely a reality and it’s not necessarily bad. Choose wisely and make sure other meals throughout the day are nutritious.
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