at major North American chains.
To determine its results, the outlet worked with registered dietician and nutritionist Lauren Manaker to examine the nutritional facts of various burgers from 15 major chains to find the seven “healthiest” options, a relative term in the world of fast food. Special attention was paid to the amount of sodium and saturated fats in each burger, which can respectively lead to heart problems and high cholesterol.
, the legendarily unfussy option made with an all-beef patty seasoned with salt and pepper and topped with pickles, chopped onions, ketchup, and mustard. The Golden Arches’ staple contains 250 calories; 30 grams of carbs; 13 grams of protein; a scant 3.5 grams of saturated fat; and 510 milligrams of sodium.
, with tomatoes and lettuce joining the pickles and onions and mayo taking the place of ketchup. BK’s burger, served on a seeded bun, is slightly healthier than McD’s in all ways with a total of 310 calories; 28 grams of carbs; 15.2 grams of protein; and 5.5 grams of saturated fat. The Whopper Jr. also had the lowest sodium content of all items listed at 390 mg.
. Though it boasts a higher sodium level at 440 mg and slightly less protein at just 15 grams, Wendy’s Jr. Hamburger squeaks into first place due to its lean calorie count (280) along with a low level of carbs (25 grams) and saturated fats (four grams).
. Shake Shack’s option, the basic hamburger, was found to have significantly more protein (25 grams) and sodium (850 mg) than any other item listed. Three out of the seven selections are so-called “Junior” versions of their respective chains’ larger offerings, leading to the rather obvious conclusion that the smaller burger is usually the healthier burger.
.
