What is the best fast food when sick? Fast food might not be your go-to for health, but it does have its place in sickness. The comfort of a warm patty melt or greasy chicken sandwich might do the trick!
I’m not a fan of fast food in general, but when I’m sick, there’s one place that always has me running to the drive-thru window.
It’s probably my favorite sandwich ever—the Patty Melt from Steak ‘n Shake! You can’t get a better combination of sweet, salty, and buttery than in this sandwich. I only wish I had one right now!
Do you eat the best fast food when sick?
Oh yes, fast food when sick is a necessity. A few years ago, I had the flu, and all I wanted was some McDonald’s French fries. Although it wasn’t one of my best decisions in terms of health, it did ease the pain a little bit.
Whenever I have a headache or body ache, I find myself planning out which fast food restaurant to go to. I’m not sure if there’s one specific favorite, but McDonald’s and Wendy’s are the two that come to mind first.
The fries at McDonald’s can be hit or miss (mostly miss), but sometimes they’re just what you need when sick! As for Wendy’s, I’m a big fan of their salads.
They have some great low-calorie and low-fat options. The Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad is my go-to when I’m sick!
What are the best fast foods to eat when sick?
Some are better than others. When I’m sick, I don’t have the appetite to go for something big like a burger or fries. Instead, I’ll opt for something lighter, like an orange chicken bowl from Panda Express.
It’s just enough to ease my pain and help me get back to full strength! Of course, there are some other options, such as McDonald’s and Wendy’s. I’m not a fan of their burgers or sandwiches (even when sick), but they make some excellent salads.
Another thing to consider is whether you’ll need something hot or cold—Wendy’s chili can be a lifesaver on a cold day, and McDonald’s french fries can warm you up on a hot one.
Best Fast Food Places to Eat When Sick
When your stomach’s in knots and your energy is zapped, the thought of cooking a whole meal can be downright daunting. That’s where fast food swoops in to save the day.
But not all fast-food joints are created equal when it comes to sick-day eats. Here are some of the top fast-food places to visit when you’re under the weather:
1. Panera Bread
Many people go to Panera Bread when they’re feeling under the weather. Their menu is chock-full of warm, comforting soups that are easy on the tummy, like their classic Chicken Noodle or Broccoli Cheddar. Plus, you can pair your soup with a soft, freshly baked bread bowl for a soothing and satisfying meal.
2. Pho Restaurants
Pho, the beloved Vietnamese noodle soup, is a true gift when you’re feeling sick. The warm broth, tender meat, and fragrant herbs and spices can work wonders for a queasy stomach.
Look for Pho restaurants in your area and order a large bowl—the steam and savory flavors are incredibly soothing.
3. Subway
Subway may be known for its endless sandwich combinations, but its menu also offers some great sick-day options. Stick to simple, easy-to-digest items like their 6-inch turkey or roast beef subs, and load up on veggies for added nutrients.
4. Applebee’s
While a full-service restaurant may not be your first thought, Applebee’s actually has some great options for when you’re under the weather. Their French Onion Soup or Chicken Noodle Soup can provide that comforting, restorative feeling your body craves.
5. Chipotle
Chipotle may seem like an unlikely choice, but their simple, straightforward menu can be a saving grace when you’re sick.
Opt for a plain rice bowl or burrito, hold the spicy toppings, and let the warm, soothing flavors of the rice, beans, and gentle proteins work their magic.
What Fast Food Can I Eat When Sick?
Now that we’ve covered some of the best fast-food destinations for when you’re feeling under the weather, let’s explore the specific menu items that’ll work wonders for your sick-day cravings.
Here are some of the top fast food options to consider when you’re not feeling your best:
Soups
Warm, comforting soups are a no-brainer when you’re sick. Look for options that are easy on the stomach, like chicken noodles, vegetables, or even simple broth-based soups. Avoid anything too spicy or heavy.
Grains
Gentle, easy-to-digest grains like white rice, oatmeal, or plain pasta can provide the sustenance your body needs without overwhelming your system. Pair with a simple protein or veggie for a soothing, nourishing meal.
Bananas
Believe it or not, bananas can be a tremendous fast-food option when you’re feeling under the weather. They’re gentle on the stomach, packed with potassium, and can help settle any nausea or upset tummy.
Applesauce
Like bananas, applesauce is a simple, soothing option that’s easy to digest. Look for unsweetened varieties to avoid any added sugars that could further upset your stomach.
Crackers
Bland, simple crackers like Saltines or Ritz can be a godsend when you’re dealing with nausea or a sensitive stomach. They provide a gentle, comforting crunch without being too heavy.
Toast
Plain, white toast is another classic sick-day food. The simple carbs and lack of heavy toppings make it easy to digest, and you can even add a bit of honey or jam for a touch of sweetness.
Best Fast Food When You Have a Cold
When you’re battling a cold, your appetite may be the last thing on your mind. But keeping your body nourished and hydrated is crucial for a speedy recovery. Here are some of the best fast-food options to reach for when you have a cold:
Hot Teas
A warm, soothing cup of tea can work wonders for a sore throat and congested sinuses. Look for herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or peppermint, which can provide natural relief.
Chicken Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a classic for a reason – the warm broth, tender chicken, and comforting noodles can help soothe inflamed airways and nourish your body.
Fruit Smoothies
When solid foods seem unappealing, a refreshing fruit smoothie can be a great way to get in some much-needed vitamins and minerals. Stick to simple, mild flavors like banana or berry.
Oatmeal
Warm, comforting oatmeal is an excellent choice when you have a cold. The fiber and complex carbs can help settle your stomach, while the warmth can provide relief for a sore throat.
Ginger Ale
The carbonation in ginger ale can help settle an upset stomach, while the ginger itself has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help ease cold symptoms.
What Fast Food to Eat When Sick?
When you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you want to do is overthink your meal options. Simplicity is key, and sticking to easy-to-digest, soothing foods can make a world of difference. Here are some of the best fast-food items to reach for when you’re sick:
Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic comfort food is a go-to for a reason. The warm broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles are incredibly soothing for a sore throat or upset stomach.
Applesauce
Unsweetened applesauce is a gentle, easy-to-digest option that can help settle your stomach and provide a touch of natural sweetness.
Bananas
Packed with potassium and gentle on the tummy, bananas are a fantastic fast-food choice when you’re not feeling your best.
Oatmeal
Warm, comforting oatmeal is a great way to get in some complex carbs and fiber without overwhelming your system.
Crackers
Simple, bland crackers like Saltines or Ritz can provide a gentle crunch and a touch of sustenance without being too heavy.
White Rice
Plain white rice is a soothing, easy-to-digest carbohydrate that can help settle your stomach and provide some much-needed energy.
Good Places to Eat When Sick
When you’re under the weather, the last thing you want to do is waste time and energy trying to figure out where to grab a quick bite. That’s why it’s essential to have a go-to list of good places to eat when you’re sick. Here are some of the top options:
Panera Bread
With its extensive selection of comforting soups, Panera Bread is a fantastic choice for a soothing, easy-to-digest meal when you’re not feeling your best.
Pho Restaurants
The warm, fragrant broth and tender proteins in a big bowl of pho can soothe a queasy stomach and congested sinuses.
Subway
Subway’s simple sandwich options, like a plain turkey or roast beef sub, provide gentle sustenance without being too heavy.
Applebee’s
While not a typical fast-food joint, Applebee’s offers comforting soup options that can be a godsend when you’re under the weather.
Chipotle
Chipotle’s straightforward menu of rice, beans, and proteins can be an excellent choice for a soothing, easy-to-digest meal.
So the next time you’re feeling under the weather, don’t hesitate to swing by one of these fast-food havens for a quick, comforting pick-me-up.
What Fast Food is Good When Sick?
When you’re sick, the last thing you want to do is spend hours agonizing over what to eat. You need something fast, easy, and gentle on your stomach – and that’s where fast food comes in.
However, not all fast-food options are created equal when it comes to sick-day eats. Here are some of the best fast-food choices when you’re not feeling your best:
| Fast Food Option | Why it’s Good When Sick |
|---|---|
| Chicken Noodle Soup | The warm broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles are incredibly soothing for a sore throat or upset stomach. |
| Bananas | Packed with potassium and gentle on the tummy, bananas are a fantastic fast-food choice when you’re not feeling your best. |
| Oatmeal | Warm, comforting oatmeal is a great way to get in some complex carbs and fiber without overwhelming your system. |
| Applesauce | Unsweetened applesauce is a gentle, easy-to-digest option that can help settle your stomach and provide a touch of natural sweetness. |
| Crackers | Simple, bland crackers like saltines or Ritz can provide a gentle crunch and a touch of sustenance without being too heavy. |
| White Rice | Plain white rice is a soothing, easy-to-digest carbohydrate that can help settle your stomach and provide some much-needed energy. |
Remember, when you’re sick, the key is to stick to simple, gentle foods that won’t further upset your stomach. Avoid anything too spicy, greasy, or heavy, and focus on soothing, comforting options that will nourish your body and help you feel better fast.
Is fast food good for you?
It depends on what you order from each restaurant. There’s no denying that fast food isn’t the best for your health, but sometimes a greasy burger is exactly what you need when sick.
Wendy’s and McDonald’s have some excellent options that won’t break the calorie bank. Just remember that it’s probably better not to eat fast food while healthy!
The Bottom Line
Thanks for reading my blog post! Hopefully, this helped you decide what to order when you’re feeling under the weather.
If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below, and I will respond as soon as possible.
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