Health Tip: Making Better Choices for Fast Food

(HealthDay News) -- Fast food may be inexpensive and convenient, but it is often high in calories, fat, sugar and salt.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers these suggestions for choosing healthier options at fast food restaurants:

• Choose smaller portions, or only eat half of your meal.
• Skip the fries and choose fresh fruit, a salad or vegetables, yogurt or other healthy option as your side item.
• Order sandwiches without mayonnaise, cheese, bacon or fattening sauces.
• Ask for extra veggies on your sandwich, which may include lettuce, onions or tomatoes.
• Choose lean, grilled meats such as chicken or turkey instead of a burger.
• Skip breaded and fried meats, whether on your sandwich or salad.