A couple years ago, Health.com did some research on the top 10 healthiest fast food restaurants.  They took a look at 100 fast food chains, carefully studying the menus. Even a couple years ago in 2009, many restaurants were moving toward healthier choices. We’re waiting for someone to update the research, but all trends look like they’re going to continue with healthier and healthier choices (we’re not sure where Burger King selling beer fits in, to be honest!) According to Health.com, they “scored the chains on such factors as the use of healthy fats and preparations, healthy sodium counts in entrees, availability of nutritional information, and the use of organic produce to determine the 10 highest-ranking restaurants.”

Here’s the short list. (You might be surprised, but McDonald’s actually made it on this list. Not for the greasy french fries, though…)

• Panera Bread – Over 1,230 locations nationwide (and in Canada)
• Jason’s Deli – 206 locations in the West, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, South
• Au Bon Pain – 280 locations nationwide
• Noodles and Company – 204 locations in West, Midwest, South
• Corner Bakery Cafe – 111 locations in West, Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, South
• Chipotle – 800+ locations nationwide
• Atlanta Bread – 106 locations in 24 states (Southeast, West, and North)
• McDonald’s – 14,000 locations nationwide
• Einstein Bros. Bagels - 649 locations nationwide
• Taco Del Mar – 270 locations in 22 states

With any fast food choices you make, you want to see if you can find the healthiest items on the menu. This isn’t always easy, but these days (in 2011) more and more fast food chains are offering healthy choices. A chain that didn’t make the list, but should (in our opinion) is Subway. They have a great selection of low fat and healthy subs. They even have guacamole this summer!

The next time you are out and about and decide to stop at a fast food joint, take the time to study the menu and see if you can’t come up with at least a few healthy choices – even if you splurge and get that milkshake or those yummy french fries (aka Freedom Fries.) In 2011, there are many great, healthy choices you can make when it comes to fast food.

If you have a favorite fast food restaurant suggestion or tip, we would love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and let us know what you think Health.com should have added to their list. With so many healthy fast food choices available these days, it’s easier than ever to get something that’s convenient but still good for you.

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