You know what they say: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day! A healthy breakfast is an important part of a healthy life—and it probably goes without saying that fast food generally isn’t the best option for your body. However, if you lead a busy life, sometimes convenience takes precedence. But that doesn’t mean you have to completely sacrifice your health when you stop at the drive-thru.
As it turns out, there are several healthy fast food breakfasts that can support a healthy lifestyle and help you stay on track with your weight loss goals. We spoke to health experts to shed light on some of the best options. Find their insight below.
1. Starbucks Oatmeal
Although all of the sweet pastries on display at Starbucks may be tempting, limiting your intake of refined carbs and sugar is an important part of staying healthy. Luckily, Starbucks offers many different breakfast options, including a few healthy menu items. Nutritionist Paula Rubello recommends going with the oatmeal.
"If you are planning to eat breakfast at Starbucks, get the plain oatmeal for some high fiber carbohydrates and top it with nuts for healthy fats," she suggests. "Order some egg white bites for protein and you will have a very balanced breakfast!" Sounds perfect!
2. Starbucks Spinach and Feta Egg White Wrap
According to dietitian Molly Morgan, RD says there's another great option to consider at Starbucks: their Spinach and Feta Egg White Wrap.
"This wrap is so easy to eat on the go," she says. But it isn't only convenient—it's actually quite nutritious, too! Morgan notes that it "delivers 20 grams of protein coming mostly from cage free egg whites." Plus, it's made with a whole wheat wrap, which she says "has 3 grams of fiber and will help to fill you up!" Yum! With only 290 calories, this isn't a bad way to start your day at all.
3. McDonald’s Sausage Burrito
If you’re pressed for options and McDonalds is the only restaurant around, their Sausage Burrito is a viable breakfast option as it is a solid source of protein. Nutritionist Heather Hanks notes that it is only 310 calories and contains 2 grams of sugar so you won’t have to brace yourself for a crash. London recommends adding veggies onto a meal wherever you can, so ask if there are any greens available to add into this burrito if you feel it’s lacking.
4. Panera’s Chipotle Chicken, Egg and Avocado Sandwich
This sandwich is a delicious option that still maintains a healthy amount of calories to start off your day. “I like this sandwich because it contains fresh avocado, peppers, chicken and egg in a whole grain wrap. It contains 450 calories, 27 grams of protein, and 4 grams of fiber,” says Hanks. Perfect!
