Eating fast -- and healthy too

For me, fast-food is a turn-off. And I fear the day I have no other option than to end up in line at McDonald's. What ever will I do when faced with the unhealthy options available at such as establishment? Have no fear, says one Kansas dietitian, who reports there are tactics for surviving my worst fear. Here are a few:

• Go plain. The plainer the food, the healthier it is. A plain hamburger at McDonald's has nine grams of fat; a double cheeseburger has 23.

• Choose mustard and ketchup. Say "no thanks" to mayo and special sauces and you'll save 10 to 17 grams of fat.

• Opt for light dressing. Most fast-food chains offer low or no-fat dressings. Ask for them.

• Take grilled meat over fried. And skip the bacon.

• Refuse the combo meal. You'll consume fewer calories this way, even if it costs a few pennies more.

• Beware of drinks. Get the diet version of beverages, low-fat milk, iced tea, or water. Otherwise, you'll be drinking lots of empty calories.

I still hope I never land at the counter of a fast-food restaurant. But in the event it happens, I won't be so afraid. I won't be happy, but I think I'll survive.