Paleo Diet and Fast Food: Top Choices for Staying Healthy on the Go

Following a paleo diet while on the go can be challenging, especially when fast food options seem limited. However, with careful choices and modifications, you can enjoy convenient meals without compromising your dietary principles. This guide provides a comprehensive look at paleo-friendly fast food options to help you maintain your healthy lifestyle even when dining out.

What is the Paleo Diet?

The paleo diet emphasizes whole foods that could have been hunted or gathered during the Paleolithic era. This includes lean meats, fish, fruits, non-starchy vegetables, nuts, and seeds while avoiding processed foods, grains, legumes, and dairy.

Top Paleo-Friendly Fast Food Options

Chick-fil-A: Grilled Nuggets

Why it works: Chick-fil-A’s grilled nuggets are a great paleo-friendly choice as they are made without breading.

How to order: Opt for a 12-count grilled nugget box. Avoid the sauces and instead use a paleo-friendly condiment from home.

Shake Shack: Lettuce Wrap Burger

Why it works: Shake Shack’s burgers can be customized to fit paleo guidelines.

How to order: Request an Avocado Bacon Burger without cheese and ShackSauce, and have it wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun.

Chipotle: Lifestyle Paleo Bowl

Why it works: Chipotle offers a ready-made Paleo Bowl that requires no modifications.

How to order: The Paleo Bowl includes lettuce, chicken, fajita veggies, tomatillo-green salsa, and guacamole.

In-N-Out: Protein Style Burger

Why it works: In-N-Out offers a "Protein Style" option where the burger is wrapped in lettuce.

How to order: Request your burger without the bun and sauce. Double up on patties for a more filling meal.

Sweetgreen: Custom Salad Bowl

Why it works: Sweetgreen allows you to create a salad that fits your dietary needs.

How to order: Start with a base of lettuce, add your choice of veggies, and top with grilled chicken. Skip the grains, cheese, and dressings that contain non-paleo ingredients.

Starbucks: Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box

Why it works: Though limited, Starbucks offers some paleo-friendly options.

How to order: Choose the Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box and consume only the hard-boiled eggs, apples, and grapes. Discard the cheddar, bread, and peanut butter.

El Pollo Loco: Fit Menu

Why it works: El Pollo Loco’s Pollo Fit Menu includes paleo-friendly items.

How to order: Opt for the Double Chicken Avocado Salad, removing the corn, cheese, and dressings.

Panera Bread: Strawberry Poppyseed Salad with Chicken

Why it works: Panera Bread offers salads that can be easily modified to be paleo.

How to order: Get the Strawberry Poppyseed Salad with Chicken but remove the pecans, oranges, and dressing.

CAVA: Build Your Own Salad

Why it works: CAVA’s customizable bowls are ideal for paleo dieters.

How to order: Choose a lettuce base, add paleo-friendly toppings, and skip the dressings and non-paleo proteins.

Jimmy John's: Unwich

Why it works: Jimmy John’s Unwich is a sandwich wrapped in lettuce instead of bread.

How to order: Try the Beach Club Unwich without cheese and mayo.

Tips for Ordering Paleo at Fast Food Chains

• Read the ingredients: Always check for hidden grains, legumes, or dairy in dressings and sauces.
• Customize: Don't hesitate to ask for modifications to make your meal paleo-compliant.
• Plan ahead: Familiarize yourself with paleo-friendly options at your favorite fast food chains to make quick decisions.

Conclusion

Sticking to a paleo diet doesn't mean you have to avoid fast food altogether. With the right choices and modifications, you can enjoy convenient meals that align with your dietary goals. Remember to plan ahead, customize your orders, and choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.