Navigating the world of fast food while striving for a balanced and low-calorie diet may seem challenging, but certain options can align with your weight loss goals. Taco Bell, known for its diverse menu, offers opportunities to make mindful choices that prioritize both flavor and nutrition. By making informed choices, you can enjoy the convenience of fast food without compromising your health and wellness journey.
Fitness expert and TikTok creator @eligetsfit, who boasts over 65K followers on the app, Maddie Macdonald MS, RD, LDN @maddiemacrd; and fitness coach Patrick Wilson, who has over 390K followers on TikTok, recently shared some of their low-calorie, high-protein orders at Taco Bell for those looking to lose weight while also indulging at the fast food chain.
@eligetsfit Follow for more fast food recommendations You don’t have to cut out all your favorite foods while on a calorie deficit. Of course the goal should always be to maintain as much of a nutritious and balanced diet as possible, but I get it sometimes you just need something on the go when you’re in a pinch or need to kill a craving Allowing myself to enjoy my favorite fast food restaurants in a calorie deficit by making a few swaps had made all the difference in being able to stick with it long term, because it’s what’s most realistic for myself. Good luck on your journey bestie! #caloriedeficit #tacobell #lowcaloriefastfood ♬ original sound – Eli | Fitness Journey
Power Bowl
Eli highlights that despite shedding more than 40 pounds, she hasn’t eliminated the foods she has always enjoyed, including her favorites like Taco Bell.
Her first choice is the power bowl. “I usually try to go for something lower in calories and higher in proteins. My recent favorite is the power bowl. I get it with chicken and it comes with cheese, sour cream, beans, rice, lettuce, and tomato. It’s a pretty nice size and really filling,” she says.
As far as numbers go, her bowl is “420 calories and 28 grams of protein.” She adds that “this has a lot more protein than most things on the menu.”
@maddiemacrd Episode 6 | Taco Bell | Healthy fast food choices @tacobell #registereddieitian #healthytacobell #healthyfastfood #healthyfastfoodchoices #macrofriendlyfastfood #dietitiansoftiktok #dietitianapproved #balancedmeals ♬ original sound – Maddie Macdonald MS, RD, LDN
Registered dietitian MacDonald agrees, and says the power bowl can be customizable when you add “chicken for some extra protein.” She also notes that this meal is the perfect balance of protein, carbs, healthy fats from the guac, and fiber from the veggies.
Crunchy Chicken Taco
The crunchy chicken taco from Taco Bell presents a delicious option that can align with weight loss goals. Featuring a crispy taco shell filled with seasoned chicken, lettuce, and cheese, this menu item strikes a balance between satisfying flavor and nutritional value.
Eli notes that this specific order has “140 calories and 11 grams of protein,” ideal for those looking for a low-calorie, high-protein option.
Burrito Supreme Fresco Style
If you’re more of a burrito type of person, Eli also has you covered with a low-calorie, high-protein choice. “I usually grab a burrito supreme and make it fresco style as well. That basically removes the sour cream and the cheese and replaces it with tomato so it cuts out a bunch of those calories.”
Although this meal is customizable, Taco Bell’s nutrition facts label has it has 390 calories and 16g of protein.
@gainsbypatIs it safe to say taco bell is underrated for an occasional fat loss meal? suprisingly full & decently high protein/low calorie♬ original sound – Patrick Wilson
Supreme Doritos Locos Taco
Fitness coach Patrick Wilson says in this TikTok that the supreme Doritos locos taco carries only 190 calories and about 8 grams of protein. He also underscores the idea that consuming fast food should be occasional and in moderate servings, rather than making it a daily dietary choice.
These are four Taco Bell orders that are low in calories yet high in protein, serving as mindful choices for your next visit to the chain without jeopardizing your weight loss goals!
