Eating Healthy in the United States Is It Impossible?

Is it possible to eat healthy in the United States? This question often arises when planning a trip to this vast and diverse country. From our own experiences, we can attest that while temptation may lurk around every corner, there are plenty of options to enjoy nutritious meals. Join us as we explore some practical tips and tricks to navigate the American culinary landscape without sacrificing your health.

For those who know us, resisting culinary temptations is not our strong suit. During our two-month adventure in the US, we indulged in countless calorie-laden delights, convinced that our extensive walking would balance it out. Spoiler alert: it didn't. But fear not, eating healthy in the US is entirely possible! If you're skeptical, keep reading for some valuable insights and strategies that will help you return home feeling great.

Stay tuned for our upcoming post featuring 20 must-try dishes in the US—after all, you don't have to munch on lettuce and carrots all day long in the land of burgers!

4 Essential Facts You Should Know

Before diving into the US food scene, here are four fundamental points to consider:

• Cities Matter: Eating healthy is significantly easier in larger cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
• Price Check: Healthy food can be more expensive. Fast food chains often have incredibly competitive prices, making a hot dog cheaper than an apple!
• Calorie Counts: Many menus display calorie counts, helping health-conscious diners make informed choices.
• Rising Awareness: Fortunately, it’s becoming increasingly easier to find healthy options throughout the country, so keep your spirits up!

Fast Food Chains… with a Slow Food Twist

The US is often criticized for its fast food culture, but what many overlook is the rise of the slow food movement, which advocates for organic, healthy, local, and sustainable dining options. This philosophy has gained traction across the nation, and you'll even find fast food chains embracing it. Here are some noteworthy options:

• B.Good: Healthy salads, bowls, and burgers, plus vegetarian options.
• Just Salad: A paradise for salad lovers with a variety of fresh ingredients.
• Veggie Grill: A vegetarian chain offering an impressive array of mouthwatering dishes.
• Protein Bar: Delicious vegan and non-vegan options, including tasty bowls and shakes.
• Au Bon Pain: Known for its wraps and sandwiches, this chain has something for everyone.
• Zoup!: Offers a variety of soups and sandwiches to warm your soul.
• Sweetgreen: A popular spot for customizable and delicious bowls.
• Panera Bread: A go-to for sandwiches, bowls, soups, and breakfast options.

* Be sure to check the locations of these chains, as availability varies by city.

→ For more options, browse this post featuring the best slow food restaurants in the US.

→ Learn more about the slow food movement on Wikipedia.

Try Vegetarian or Vegan Options

While we personally enjoy meat, we're gradually reducing our intake. There are many nutritious plant-based alternatives that are also more environmentally friendly. Recently, we watched the eye-opening documentary Cowspiracy and found it quite impactful—highly recommend it!

Choosing vegetarian or vegan meals not only supports ethical eating but can also lead to a healthier lifestyle. Many vegetarian and vegan restaurants are popping up all over the country. A helpful resource for finding nearby veggie spots is HappyCow.

Beware of Sugary Drinks

Keep in mind that indulging in comfort foods like pizza, burgers, or fried chicken (not all at once, of course!) isn’t inherently bad, especially since travel often means more physical activity. The real concern arises when you pair these meals with sugary beverages, especially with free refills at most fast food establishments.

Liquid calories are the enemy. Water, which is often served for free in the US, is your best friend. Remember that simple tip!

Shopping Smart at Supermarkets

Arguably, the most cost-effective way to maintain a healthy diet in the US is by shopping at supermarkets and preparing your meals—if your accommodation has a kitchen, that is. Fortunately, several "green" supermarkets offer fresh, ready-to-eat options that can save you time and effort. Some notable mentions include:

• Whole Foods Market: The most well-known chain with locations convenient for tourists.
• Wegmans
• Trader Joe's
• Sprouts Farmers Market
• Harris Teeter
• Lazy Acres

* Check locations beforehand, as not all supermarkets are available in every state.

If you're in New York, you'll frequently encounter Delis, which are small neighborhood shops offering food by weight (among other products). This is an excellent alternative for healthy eating, typically costing around $6-10.

Do Your Research on Yelp

If you haven't heard of Yelp, it's a game-changer for food enthusiasts. This platform boasts thousands of restaurant reviews, complete with photos and menus, making it akin to America’s version of TripAdvisor for foodies.

Before your trip to the US, take some time to explore Yelp. You can filter your searches by cuisine type, price range, and location. Often, travelers make poor dining choices simply because they settle for the first place they find when hungry. With a bit of planning, you can identify intriguing restaurants in advance. For instance, if you're visiting West Village on Wednesday morning, you’ll know where to look for a great meal!

I'm quite the restaurant enthusiast! 😄

→ For more info, visit www.yelp.com/.

Do you have more tips for eating healthy in the United States?

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