Living with chronic pancreatitis (CP) can be a daily struggle. Beyond navigating symptoms like recurring pain and fatigue, another challenge for many chronic pancreatitis patients is avoiding flare-causing foods, like those high in fat. Depending on specific and personal nutrition needs, it’s typically recommended that chronic pancreatitis patients limit their daily fat to anywhere between 30 and 50 grams per day (in the U.S.).
While fast food may not be the best choice for people with chronic pancreatitis, we recognize that life can come with unexpected challenges. Whether you’re traveling, have limited dining options, or find yourself in need of a quick meal during a busy day, fast food can sometimes provide a convenient, temporary solution. In this post, we’ve listed low-fat options (all 7 grams or less) from popular fast-food establishments to help in such situations. It’s important to keep in mind that fast food should remain an occasional exception, rather than a regular part of your routine, if you have chronic pancreatitis.
Low-Fat Options at Taco Bell
1. Soft Taco Chicken
Calories per serving: 160 kcal
Fat per serving: 5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 16 g
Protein per serving: 12 g
2. Black Beans and Rice
Calories Per Serving: 160 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 4.5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 25 g
Protein Per Serving: 4 g
Low-Fat Options at Starbucks
1. Petite Vanilla Bean Scone
Calories Per Serving: 130 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 6 g
Carbs Per Serving: 19 g
Protein Per Serving: 2 g
2. Marshmallow Dream Bar
Calories Per Serving: 230 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 44 g
Protein Per Serving: 1 g
Low-Fat Options at Subway
1. Oven Roasted Turkey Sandwich (6”)
Calories per serving: 270 kcal
Fat per serving: 4 g
Carbs Per Serving: 40 g
Protein per serving: 22 g
2. Sweet Onion Chicken Terakyi Bowl (with sweet onion teriyaki sauce)
Calories Per Serving: 380 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 53 g
Protein Per Serving: 34 g
Low-Fat Options at Popeye’s
1. Blackened Chicken Tenders (5 ct.)
Calories per serving: 280 kcal
Fat per serving: 3 g
Carbs Per Serving: 3 g
Protein per serving: 43 g
2. Mashed Potatoes with Cajun Gravy (Reg.)
Calories Per Serving: 110 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 4 g
Carbs Per Serving: 54 g
Protein Per Serving: 3 g
Low-Fat Options at KFC
1. Kentucky Grilled Chicken Breast
Calories Per Serving: 210 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 7 g
Carbs Per Serving: 0 g
Protein Per Serving: 38 g
2. Caesar Side Salad (with croutons and light Italian dressing)
Calories Per Serving: 110 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 5.5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 12 g
Protein Per Serving: 5 g
Low-Fat Options at Arby’s
1. Roast Beef Slider
Calories Per Serving: 170 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 7 g
Carbs Per Serving: 16 g
Protein Per Serving: 10 g
2. Jalapeno Roast Beef Slider
Calories Per Serving: 180 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 7 g
Carbs Per Serving: 16 g
Protein Per Serving: 10 g
Low-Fat Options at Panera
1. Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup (bread bowl)
Calories Per Serving: 780 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 148 g
Protein Per Serving: 35 g
2. Avocado Sandwich (whole)
Calories Per Serving: 210 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 37 g
Protein Per Serving: 7 g
Low-Fat Options at Panda Express
1. Super Greens Entree
Calories Per Serving: 45 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 2 g
Carbs Per Serving: 5 g
Protein Per Serving: 3 g
2. Chicken Potstickers (3 ct.)
Calories Per Serving: 160 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 6 g
Carbs Per Serving: 20 g
Protein Per Serving: 6 g
Low-Fat Options at Dairy Queen
1. Rotisserie-Style Chicken Bites
Calories Per Serving: 150 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 6 g
Carbs Per Serving: 1 g
Protein Per Serving: 25 g
2. Side Salad (with marzetti light italian dressing)
Calories Per Serving: 35 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 1 g
Carbs Per Serving: 2 g
Protein Per Serving: 1 g
Low-Fat Options at Jimmy Johns
1. Slim 4 (turkey breast sandwich on 16” french bread)
Calories Per Serving: 830 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 6 g
Carbs Per Serving: 135 g
Protein Per Serving: 54 g
2. Slim 2 Unwhich (roast beef lettuce wrap)
Calories Per Serving: 90 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 3 g
Carbs Per Serving: <1 g
Protein Per Serving: 17 g
Bonus List: Low-Fat Breakfast Options
1. Burger King Pancake Platter
Calories Per Serving: 235.1 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 6.9 g
Carbs Per Serving: 41.9 g
Protein Per Serving: 1.7 g
2. McDonald’s Fruit and Maple Oatmeal
Calories Per Serving: 320 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 4.5 g
Carbs Per Serving: 64 g
Protein Per Serving: 6 g
3. Dunkin Cinnamon Raisin Bagel
Calories Per Serving: 320 kcal
Fat Per Serving: 1 g
Carbs Per Serving: 67 g
Protein Per Serving: 11 g
Strategies for Eating at Fast Food Restaurants
Choosing low-fat options at fast food restaurants may seem challenging, but with planning and awareness, you can make choices that align with your dietary needs. Here are some helpful strategies to consider:
- Menu Research. Before heading to a fast food restaurant, take some time to research their menu online. Many establishments provide nutritional information, including fat content, for each menu item. Look for options that are low in fat, and avoid creamy sauces, deep-fried foods, or excessive cheese.
- Customization. Most fast-food restaurants are willing to accommodate customization requests. Do not hesitate to request modifications to your order, such as requesting no cheese, mayo, or other high-fat toppings. Opt for grilled options instead of fried, and choose whole-grain buns if available.
- Salads. Salads are a great choice for low-fat options, but be careful with the salad dressings. Opt for low-fat or vinaigrette dressings on the side and use them sparingly. Avoid creamy dressings like ranch or Caesar, as they can be high in fat.
- Lean Protein. Look for menu items that contain lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken, turkey, or fish. These options are generally lower in fat and can provide essential nutrients.
- Sides. Instead of traditional french fries, opt for healthier side options like a side salad, fruit cup, or vegetable side. These choices can provide the necessary fiber and nutrients without the added fat.
