Chick-fil-A: A Good Choice After Bariatric Surgery?

Note: Whether you’ve had bariatric surgery or not, you’ll likely visit a fast-food or fast-casual restaurant at some point. With our rushed and busy lives, fast food may cross our minds. Often, we can get something to hold us over without destroying the diet, but it’s important to choose right. Speak to your bariatric practice and dietician for guidance…do not rely on this guide alone.

Chick-fil-A is the world’s third most popular fast-food restaurant chain, with over 3,000 locations across 48 states. This restaurant chain’s rise in popularity is a product of its emphasis on customer service and its declaration that “We Didn’t Invent the Chicken, Just the Chicken Sandwich.” Their ever-expanding popularity is even more impressive when you consider they aren’t open on Sundays. And who doesn’t love fried chicken?

The problem, however, is that fried chicken isn’t very healthy – especially if you’ve had weight loss surgery. A post-surgery diet must emphasize lean proteins, healthy fats, and low-sugar foods. This can be tricky at almost any fast-food restaurant. Chick-fil-A, in particular, is known for its deep-fried chicken and waffle fries, both of which are high in fat, sodium and added calories.

Fast food isn’t always the best option if you want to eat healthier. However, our busy lives are often made easier by going to the drive-thru during a busy day. Fortunately, Chick-fil-A offers a variety of healthier menu options that can be good choices if you’re trying to avoid more processed foods.

Below is a list of lower-fat and higher-protein foods at Chick-fil-A:

Breakfast:

Egg White Grill
This sandwich is only 300 calories and boasts 28 grams of protein. It also only has 8g of fat, making it a great choice for breakfast. Pair this with a Fruit Cup on the side for only 70 more calories.

Chicken, Egg & Cheese Muffin
This sandwich is higher in calories than the Egg White Grill and has twice the fat, considering the chicken is fried. However, it is relatively low in calories for a breakfast sandwich (420) and is also very high in protein (27 grams).

Greek Yogurt Parfait
This option is relatively high in sugar, which may not make it the best choice for those who have had bypass surgery and may suffer from dumping syndrome. However, it also packs 14 grams of protein and is only 270 calories.

Lunch and Dinner

Grilled Chicken Sandwich
This staple has 390 calories and 28 grams of protein, making it a filling meal. Pair this sandwich with the Kale Crunch Side salad, which adds 170 more calories and 4 grams of fiber for added satiety.

Grilled Nuggets
Grilled nuggets may not be a complete meal on their own. However, they are a great option for adding lean protein (25 grams per 8 nuggets) to a side salad.

Market Salad
This is the lowest in calories of Chick-fil-A’s three salads. With grilled chicken filet as the protein option, the salad (with toppings included) is 550 calories and 28 grams of protein, making it a great choice for an easy, nourishing meal. The fruit on the salad aids in supplying fiber.

Fast food isn’t always the best choice if you’re looking for a healthy meal. However, Chick-fil-A is healthy when compared to other drive-thru chains, especially since they offer foods like salads, fruit cups, and grilled chicken. Making healthier choices at the drive-thru can help you feel better and successfully meet your health goals.