Drive-thru nutrition

Putting the brakes on fast-food

Did you know that every day, one in three American kids eats a meal of fast-food?

According to a study in Pediatrics, eating fast-food can add six pounds to a child's weight each year. Those extra pounds are no surprise considering that the average fast-food "value" meal contains 1,200 calories and 53 grams of fat. A few quick bites can yield more than half of an adult's fat and calorie allotment for the whole day.

But parents don't have to give up fast-food to get the family's nutritional needs back on track.

Take control at the drive up window

Busy school and work schedules make the drive-up window a tempting and easy solution for hungry families. Fast food doesn't have to be unhealthy, said Dr. Leann Kridelbaugh, medical director of the LEAN Families program at Children's Medical Center.

"You can make your fast-food meals healthier by simply cutting back on your visits and ordering wisely," Kridelbaugh said. "Most fast-food restaurants now have healthier alternatives; you just have to be selective in your choices."

Don't fight the fast-food fight

Pleading, whining and tears can break the will of even the most determined parent when it comes to demanding a visit to the local burger palace. Instead of saying no to fast-food, parents can practice a policy of balance versus total elimination when it comes to determining the number of weekly visits or how often those fatty foods are ordered. Kridelbaugh said little changes can make a difference.

"Here at the LEAN Families program we know family meals from the drive-thru are a fact of life — but we've seen how making just a few changes to the menu can add up to big results," she said. "We suggest that instead of telling children they can't order fried foods or their beloved chicken nuggets, parents can limit that favorite fried meal to a one-time, once-a-week reward or treat."

Tips for parents to consider before the next fast-food run

Change the menu

• AVOID fried foods, adult portions, onion rings, ice cream, or a constant diet of chicken nuggets
• YES to an order of chicken nuggets, balanced with apple slices or side salad instead of french fries
• YES-YES to salads, fruit, frozen yogurt, grilled chicken on whole-wheat rolls, or baked potatoes with vegetables

• When you order a kids' meal, ask to swap sodas for milk and fries for fruit.
• Choose low-fat milk, water or juice, not empty-calorie soft drinks or shakes.
• Skip the extra cheese.
• Don't order a "super size" or "value" meal unless you plan to share it.
• Order smaller by ordering items individually.
• Go easy on salad dressing – ask for fat-free, low-calorie options.
• Make fast-food a once-a-week treat, rather than an everyday occurrence.
• Visit restaurant websites for nutrition information before taking the family to eat.
• Don't eat in the car – kids often associate riding with eating and expect parents to go though the drive-up.

Free fast-foods calculator

Many studies have shown that eating healthy can prevent some childhood cancers, heart disease in children, and diabetes. Now you can dine worry free by checking out exactly how much that burger or taco adds to you and your child's daily calorie count. To help you beat the buldge, take a look at our free nutrition guide.

Tags: Childhood Obesity , Fast Food Nutrition , Drive Thru Nutrition , Restaurants , LEAN Families , Nutrition