The Unhealthiest Menu Items
While treating yourself to fast food occasionally is generally acceptable, being an informed consumer is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet. The least healthy options on the McDonald's menu are defined by their excessive calories, saturated fat, and sodium content, often delivered in massive portions. The 'Big Breakfast with Hotcakes' is consistently cited by dietitians as one of the most nutritionally unsound items. This platter, which typically includes scrambled eggs, sausage, a hash brown, biscuit, and hotcakes with butter and syrup, can exceed 1,300 calories, pack over 60 grams of fat, and contain over 2,000 milligrams of sodium, depending on regional variations. This single meal can represent over half of a person's recommended daily calorie intake and is loaded with unhealthy saturated fats.
The Worst Offenders by Menu Category
Beyond the infamous breakfast platter, other menu categories harbor significant nutritional pitfalls. Knowing what to avoid is a key part of making better dietary choices at McDonald's.
Burgers
When it comes to burgers, the larger, double-patty options loaded with cheese, bacon, and sauces are the primary culprits. The 'Double Bacon Smokehouse Burger' and 'Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese' are prime examples. The Double Bacon Smokehouse, for instance, has been reported with over 1,100 calories, 67 grams of fat, and nearly 2,000 milligrams of sodium. These items combine high-calorie processed meats with layers of fat and sodium, contributing significantly to unhealthy eating patterns when consumed regularly.
Desserts and Drinks
Don't be fooled by the sweet temptations on the McCafé menu. Large shakes and McFlurries are sugar and calorie bombs. A 22-ounce McCafé shake can contain over 800 calories and provide nearly the entire recommended daily intake of fat. A McFlurry with M&Ms is also a significant contender, with some versions reaching over 900 calories. The sheer amount of sugar and fat in these dessert drinks makes them a detrimental choice for anyone conscious of their health.
Fried Chicken Items
Crispy, or fried, chicken items are another category of concern. Sandwiches and wraps, such as the 'Bacon Smokehouse Buttermilk Crispy Chicken' and 'Crispy Chicken and Bacon McWrap,' are high in sodium and fat. A single fried chicken sandwich with all the fixings can contain over 900 calories and nearly 2,000 mg of sodium, putting you dangerously close to the daily recommended maximum in one sitting. Choosing grilled chicken instead of crispy is a simple, effective way to significantly cut down on calories, fat, and sodium.
A Closer Look at Nutritional Data
Understanding the nutritional components is key to identifying the worst items. The main issues are excessive calories, high levels of unhealthy saturated fats, and exorbitant sodium counts. Saturated fats and high sodium are directly linked to cardiovascular health issues, including high blood pressure and clogged arteries. The added sugars in many desserts and drinks contribute to weight gain, inflammation, and potential metabolic problems.
Comparison of Unhealthy Items
| Menu Item | Calories | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Breakfast with Hotcakes | ~1,350 | ~65 | ~20 | ~2,100 |
| Double Quarter Pounder w/ Cheese | ~740 | ~45 | ~19 | ~1,290 |
| Large Chocolate Shake | ~850 | ~23 | N/A | N/A |
| Crispy Chicken Bacon Smokehouse | ~920 | ~45 | N/A | ~1,980 |
How to Make Healthier Choices at McDonald's
Eating at McDonald's doesn't have to mean completely abandoning your diet. Making smarter choices can significantly reduce the negative nutritional impact. Here are some actionable tips:
- Prioritize Grilled Over Crispy: Always opt for grilled chicken sandwiches or wraps instead of their crispy, fried counterparts. This small change drastically cuts calories and fat.
- Modify Your Order: Request your burger or sandwich without cheese, bacon, or high-calorie sauces. Get dressings on the side and use them sparingly.
- Choose Healthier Sides: Swap fries for healthier options like apple slices or a side salad. This reduces calories, fat, and sodium.
- Drink Smart: Choose water, unsweetened iced tea, or black coffee instead of sugary shakes, sodas, and frappes.
- Control Portions: Opt for smaller-sized burgers or nuggets. A 4-piece McNugget meal is a much better choice than a 20-piece. Consider splitting larger desserts with a friend.
Conclusion
While some menu items at McDonald's are undeniably bad for your health, particularly the mega-calorie and high-fat options like the Big Breakfast with Hotcakes and large shakes, it is possible to make more sensible choices. The key is to check nutritional information, modify your order, and prioritize balance and moderation. By being aware of what is the least healthiest thing at McDonald's, you can navigate the menu effectively and enjoy a more balanced fast-food experience when needed. For more in-depth nutritional information on any fast food item, always consult the official website or nutritional calculator provided by the restaurant.
References
- Business Insider. (2019, April 2). McDonald's: the Least Healthy Menu Items. Retrieved October 6, 2025, from https://www.businessinsider.com/unhealthiest-menu-items-at-mcdonalds-2017-10
- Yahoo Lifestyle Canada. (2025, August 29). I'm a dietitian. 4 McDonald’s menu items I'd never order (and 4 healthy ones I recommend). Retrieved October 6, 2025, from https://ca.style.yahoo.com/im-a-dietitian-4-mcdonalds-menu-items-id-never-order-and-4-healthy-ones-i-recommend-210039074.html
- Yahoo. (2023, November 3). The Worst McDonald's Menu Items Health Experts Say You Should Skip. Retrieved October 6, 2025, from https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/worst-mcdonald-menu-items-health-130032007.html
