Top 5 healthiest fast-food chains

If you think all fast-food chains are bad for your health, think again. There are, apparently, some that offer healthy choices and portions. Health Magazine picks the top five healthiest fast-food spots in its April issue.

The criteria used to judge the chains include healthy food preparation, whole grains on the menu, limited or no trans-fats in all dishes, low-sodium options, portion control, and how easily the costumer can access nutritional information.

1. Noodles & Company – This restaurant combines 19 fresh vegetables with seven types of pastas in Asian, Mediterranean, or American entrees.

2. Chipotle Mexican Grill – They use naturally raised, antibiotic-free meats, organic beans, and even hormone-free sour cream. The Corn tortillas give you a whole-grain option, and the tortilla-less Burrito Bowl lets you ramp up the protein and veggies.

3. Cosi – Cosi’s central theme, the hearth, yields tasty hearth-baked entrees like Alpine Chicken and Grilled Wild Alaskan Salmon. High marks for baby carrots as substitute for chips to go with their sandwiches.

4. Panera – Look to Panera’s soups for low-calorie and low-sodium options. Fresh fruit cups and apples make for healthy sides.

5. Au Bon Pain – This chain boasts hormone and antibiotic-free chicken. Plus, it provides computerized kiosks, available in most locations, with nutrition information.

Cool! Out of the five, I know at least three that are within a 10 mile radius from my house. Time to go out for some fast-food!

source: Health Magazine