No one is claiming that fast food is always healthy. But, when you’re in a pinch, there are some heart-healthy options at the drive-thru.

What makes a heart-healthy fast food meal? To find out, we asked dietitians. Whether you’re grabbing a quick meal on the go or looking for a heart-healthy snack, these choices from McDonald’s can support your heart health.

The 6 Best Heart-Healthy Picks from McDonald’s

1. Egg McMuffin

“My favorite heart-healthy McDonald’s pick that I always suggest for my patients who like to grab a quick breakfast out is the Classic Egg McMuffin,” says St. Louis-based dietitian Dorian Doss, M.S., RD, LD. “I like it instead of their biscuit options, because it has a leaner protein, Canadian bacon, and it’s lower in fat and sodium than a biscuit.”

This convenient little breakfast sandwich is a balanced choice thanks to a surprising 17 grams of protein, a moderate 6 grams of saturated fat, and zero grams of cholesterol-raising trans fats. In addition, the English muffin provides energizing carbs to power you through your morning. For extra antioxidants and vitamins, wash it down with a small orange juice.

2. McCafe Latte

The McCafe Latte is packed with blood pressure-lowering nutrients like calcium, potassium and vitamin D. Usually, it’s made with whole milk, but you can make it even healthier by requesting skim milk. Either way, you’ll rack up as much protein as a cup of milk. If that weren’t enough, coffee has been associated with heart-health benefits when consumed in moderation. Stick with the small size and skip the added sugars.  

3. Fruit & Maple Oatmeal

Made with cholesterol-lowering whole-grain oats and topped with apples, cranberries and raisins, the Fruit & Maple Oatmeal provides a healthy dose of fiber and natural sweetness, says Julie Andrews, M.S., RDN. “Plus, it’s low in saturated fat and sodium, making it a decent choice for heart health,” she adds. If you want to reduce the 18 grams of added sugar, ask for yours minus the sugar-laced cranberry raisin topping.

Keep in mind that this option is low in protein. So, pair it with a McCafe Latte for a complete meal.

4. Apple Slices

A simple but smart snack or side dish, apple slices provide natural sweetness without added sugars. Plus, apples are filled with heart-friendly antioxidants. Apples are also rich in water, which helps support healthy blood pressure. Swap them in for fries or hash browns to add volume and nutrition to your meal!

5. McChicken Sandwich

McDonald’s McChicken Sandwich is a great lunch or dinner choice if you’re aiming for heart health. The chicken provides lean protein and is surprisingly low in saturated fat. If you want to trim fat even more, skip the mayo. Then, pair it with an order of apple slices and a bottle of water or an unsweetened iced tea.

6. Filet-O-Fish

The Filet-O-Fish is an easy way to score one of the two weekly servings of fish nutrition experts recommend for heart health. Fish provides lean protein and omega-3 fats, which are both beneficial for cardiovascular health. You can make it even better by asking for it without the cheese. 

What to Look for in Heart-Healthy Picks

When heart health is a goal, what you do and don’t order at the drive-thru can make a big difference. 

Look for options that are lower in:

• Saturated Fat and Trans Fats: These fats can raise cholesterol levels. To keep them as low as possible, steer clear of the fried foods and burgers. 
• Sodium: Sodium can elevate blood pressure, which, in turn, may impact your heart health. Look for lower sodium options, like oatmeal or apple slices.
• Added Sugars: While naturally occurring sugars aren’t a concern for heart health, the American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to a maximum of 6 teaspoons a day for women and 9 teaspoons for men. You can avoid added sugars by going light on condiments like barbecue sauce and ketchup and skipping desserts and sugary beverages.

Look for options higher in:

• Fiber: Fiber may lower cholesterol, which is key for managing heart disease. Yet it can be hard to come by at McDonald’s. The oatmeal is a great option.
• Healthy fats: Heart-healthy unsaturated fats can be challenging to find at fast food joints. However, a fish sandwich can help you score some beneficial omega-3 fats.
• Lean protein: There are plenty of protein-rich options at McDonald’s. But for more heart-healthy lean protein, go with the chicken and fish sandwiches. And skip the extra cheese.

The Bottom Line

Finding heart-healthy options at McDonald’s might be easier than you think. By choosing items that are lower in saturated fat, sodium and calories and higher in protein, unsaturated fats and fiber, you can enjoy a quick meal without compromising your heart health goals. And don’t forget to check out the online nutrition facts. They’re filled with valuable information that can make your next trip to the drive-thru a lot healthier!