---
title: "Fries vs. Fruit: Helping Students Make Better Fast Food Choices"
description: Educating students on the importance of making healthy food choices consistently.
---

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# [Fries vs. Fruit: Helping Students Make Better Fast Food Choices](https://www.extendednotes.com/blog/after-school-articles/fries-vs.-fruit-helping-students-make-better-fast-food-choices)

 Written by [ExtendEDNotes](https://www.extendednotes.com/blog/author/extendednotes) | Nov 16, 2015 5:00:00 AM

## The Prevalence of Fast Food in Diets

 

While some fast food restaurants have introduced healthier kids’ meal options, many restaurants continue to provide high-calorie, nutritionally poor menu options that have harmful effects on students’ diets.

 

> “*Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.*” -Jim Rohn

 

Today’s children and youth are hooked on fast food. According to the latest [Fast Food FACTS](http://www.fastfoodmarketing.org/), 33% of children and 41% of teens consume fast food every day. While some fast food restaurants have introduced healthier kids’ meal options, many restaurants continue to provide high-calorie, nutritionally poor menu options that have harmful effects on students’ diets.

 

The [Alliance for a Healthier Generation](https://www.healthiergeneration.org/) has some tips that students – and adults – can follow for better fast-food choices. Share the following tips with the families in your program to promote healthier food options:

 

- For a healthier main course, order baked, broiled or grilled chicken.
- Avoid sandwiches with fried or breaded chicken.
- Ask for a whole-wheat bun or bread, which often has more fiber than white. Also, pack your sandwich with tomato, lettuce and onion to get more vegetables into your diet.
- Pass on sides such as fries or onion rings for a healthier alternative, like a side salad or fruit.
- Skip that carbonated soda for water, juice or milk.

For more on the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and ideas for promoting health and wellness in your program, go to [http://www.healthiergeneration.org](http://www.healthiergeneration.org/).

[View full post](https://www.extendednotes.com/blog/after-school-articles/fries-vs.-fruit-helping-students-make-better-fast-food-choices)

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