Back to school: Fast food nation

McDonald's

And prestigious award for king of the fast food industry is -- drum roll please -- McDonald’s (alright, that probably wasn't very suspenseful). The first McDonald’s was built in 1940 (kinda seems like it has been around forever, huh?), but the iconic chain is so wide spread that the Golden Arches is recognized all around the world. However in recent years this fast food giant has received growing criticism for a fatty, artery-clogging menu. Meeting that criticism with new, "fresh" menu items; Mickey D’s now offers select entrees for the health conscious. For the calorie counter though, the ‘fresh’ menu is an enemy in disguise. After all a salad is only as good as its dressing (unless eaten without dressing) and dressing in most cases would be more accurate if called that special "yummy calorie juice." Delicious! For a strict calorie counter, skip the greens and shoot for some of the other choices available off the menu.

Menu Item: Calories / Carbohydrates / Protein

Ranch Snack Wrap: 270 / 26 / 18

BBQ Snack Wrap: 260 / 28 / 16

4-PC Chicken McNuggets: 190 / 11/ 10

Fruit & Yogurt Parfait: 160 / 31 / 4

Egg McMuffin: 300 / 30/ 18