Table of Contents
Introduction
Fast food tacos have become a beloved indulgence for many Americans, offering a quick and convenient way to satisfy those cravings for Mexican-inspired flavors. However, as delicious as they may be, it’s no secret that some fast food tacos can be incredibly unhealthy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the eight unhealthiest fast food tacos in America. From their sky-high calorie counts to excessive sodium levels, these tacos are not doing any favors for your waistline or overall health. So, if you’re a taco lover looking to make healthier choices, read on to discover which tacos to steer clear of on your next fast food adventure.
The Taco Bell Doritos Locos Taco Supreme
Taco Bell’s Doritos Locos Taco Supreme, while tantalizing to the taste buds, is a nutritional nightmare. This taco features a crunchy Doritos shell stuffed with seasoned beef, lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and reduced-fat sour cream. With a whopping 200 calories and 370 milligrams of sodium per taco, indulging in these regularly can spell trouble for your health.
The Jack in the Box Taco
The Jack in the Box taco might be a budget-friendly option, but it’s far from a healthy choice. These tacos are deep-fried to golden perfection and filled with seasoned beef, lettuce, and a slice of American cheese. However, they pack a calorie punch, with each taco containing around 270 calories and 690 milligrams of sodium. Plus, they are often criticized for their greasiness.
Taco Bell’s Double Decker Taco
Another Taco Bell creation, the Double Decker Taco, is a double-layered delight that combines a soft tortilla with a crunchy taco shell. Inside, you’ll find seasoned beef, lettuce, and a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. While it may seem harmless, one of these tacos can set you back 320 calories and contain 630 milligrams of sodium.
Del Taco’s Epic Cali Steak & Guac Burrito
While not a traditional taco, the Del Taco’s Epic Cali Steak & Guac Burrito deserves an honorable mention due to its extreme calorie content. Packed with grilled steak, guacamole, sour cream, and a medley of other ingredients, this burrito boasts a staggering 1020 calories and a whopping 2140 milligrams of sodium. It’s a meal that will leave you feeling stuffed, but at a considerable cost to your health.
Taco Bell’s Cheesy Gordita Crunch
Taco Bell strikes again with the Cheesy Gordita Crunch, a taco that combines a flatbread with a crunchy taco shell, seasoned beef, lettuce, and a special blend of cheeses. Each taco contains approximately 500 calories and 910 milligrams of sodium, making it a nutritional landmine.
The Taco Bell XXL Grilled Stuft Burrito
While it’s not a taco per se, the Taco Bell XXL Grilled Stuft Burrito is worth mentioning for its sheer size and calorie count. This massive burrito boasts 870 calories and a staggering 2330 milligrams of sodium, thanks to its combination of seasoned beef, rice, beans, cheese, and creamy sauces.
Taco John’s Taco Bravo
Taco John’s Taco Bravo may seem innocent enough, but it’s far from a healthy choice. These tacos, featuring seasoned beef, lettuce, and a tangy sauce, pack a hefty 270 calories and 490 milligrams of sodium per taco. Consuming a few of these can quickly add up to a caloric overload.
Conclusion
While fast food tacos may be a convenient and tasty treat, it’s essential to be mindful of their nutritional impact on your health. The eight options we’ve explored here are among the unhealthiest fast food tacos in America, loaded with calories, sodium, and sometimes even unhealthy fats. If you’re looking to enjoy tacos without compromising your well-being, consider exploring healthier alternatives or indulging in these options sparingly.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Are there any healthier fast food taco options available?
- Yes, some fast food chains offer lighter taco choices with fewer calories and lower sodium levels. Opt for grilled chicken or fish tacos with plenty of veggies for a healthier option.
- What can I do to make my homemade tacos healthier?
- Use lean protein sources, whole-grain tortillas, and load up on fresh vegetables to make your homemade tacos a nutritious choice.
- How can I enjoy fast food tacos without overindulging?
- Limit your fast food taco consumption to occasional treats, and consider sharing a meal or choosing smaller portion sizes to manage your calorie intake.
- Are vegetarian or vegan tacos healthier than meat-based options?
- Vegetarian and vegan tacos can be healthier, depending on their ingredients. Opt for options with plenty of vegetables, beans, and whole grains for a nutrient-packed meal.
