Ever wondered how to manage a drive-thru visit with diabetes? In our ongoing series, a dietitian and diabetes educator helps us navigate the best options at popular fast food chains. This week, we explore how to enjoy Burger King” data-wpil-keyword-link=”linked”>Burger King while keeping your blood sugar in check.
Burger King is famous for its Whopper and flame-grilled burgers. Its menu also includes items like onion rings and chicken fries. However, many of its foods are high in carbs and fats, which can be challenging for people with diabetes.
To help you make better choices at Burger King, we spoke with Kim Rose, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator based in Florida. She shared tips for choosing blood sugar-friendly options that still satisfy your Burger King cravings.
General Tips for Dining at Burger King
Burger King’s “Have It Your Way” slogan highlights its customization options. The chain offers over 200,000 ways to customize the Whopper alone. Rose suggests using this flexibility to your advantage by choosing a grilled chicken sandwich or a bunless burger to reduce carb intake. Here are more tips she shared:
Choose Healthier Sides:
While fries and onion rings are tempting, adding fruits or vegetables to your meal can help manage blood glucose levels. A garden salad or apple slices are good options.
“Women need 25 grams of fiber daily, and men need 38 grams,” Rose said. “Pairing a side salad with your favorite entrée increases fiber intake, which helps with satiety, blood sugar regulation, and bowel regularity.”
Make Smart Condiment Choices:
“Sauces can enhance any meal,” Rose said. However, she advises skipping high-fat toppings like cheese, bacon, sour cream, and creamy dressings. Instead, opt for lighter options like mustard or vinegar-based dressings.
Mind Your Beverages:
Even if you choose sugar-free drinks, double-check to ensure they are indeed sugar-free. This small step can prevent unexpected blood sugar spikes.
Top Diabetes-Friendly Burger King Menu Items
Rose recommends paying attention to portion sizes to avoid excess carbs and calories, especially if you’re considering a dessert. Opting for a smaller burger or a kid’s meal can help keep portions under control.
Egg & Cheese Croissan’wich:
This is a good option for busy mornings. It provides 15 grams of protein, helping you stay full until lunchtime.
372 calories, 21.5g fat, 31g carbohydrate, 1g fiber, 4.5g sugar, 15g protein, 874 mg sodium
Hamburger:
Burger King’s original hamburger is a safe choice, especially if you order it without the bun.
250 calories, 10g fat, 29g carbohydrate, 1g fiber, 7g sugar, 13g protein, 560 mg sodium.
If you can find the Big King, it’s another good option for more protein. Remember to ask for it without sauce.
492 calories, 30g fat, 32g carbohydrate, 2.5g fiber, 8g sugar, 26g protein, 1499 mg sodium.
For more substance without too many extra calories, add lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles to your burger.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a meal at Burger King without compromising your blood sugar control.