Finding the Best Low-Calorie Dessert at McDonald's
McDonald's offers many dessert choices, with calorie counts varying widely. For those watching their calorie intake, it's helpful to know which options are best. This article explores which McDonald's dessert has the fewest calories, highlighting the key facts to help you choose wisely.
The Clear Winner: McDonald's Apple Slices
While not a traditional dessert, apple slices are the lowest-calorie sweet option. A serving has just 15 calories and 3 grams of sugar. They provide natural sweetness and are high in fiber, making them the healthiest choice. This is a great choice for those who want something sweet without extra sugar or fats.
Other Good Options: Soft Serve and Cookies
If you prefer a classic dessert, the vanilla soft serve cone is a good choice. It has 200 calories and offers a creamy taste. The chocolate chip cookie is another option, with about 170 calories. It provides a satisfying treat. However, these options have more sugar and fat than the apple slices.
Reviewing the Nutritional Information
Calories aren't the only factor. Fat, sugar, and protein also matter in a healthy diet. For example, the vanilla cone has more sugar than the baked apple pie, even though it has fewer calories. The apple pie has more fiber.
Comparing McDonald's Dessert Choices
| Dessert Item | Calories (approx.) | Total Fat (g) | Total Sugars (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Slices | 15 | 0 | 3 |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie | 170 | 8 | 15 |
| Baked Apple Pie | 230 | 11 | 16 |
| Vanilla Soft Serve Cone | 200 | 5 | 23 |
| Plain Sundae | 210 | 6 | 27 |
Note: Nutritional information can change. Data here is an average based on recent US nutrition facts.
Customizing Your Order for Fewer Calories
To lower the calorie count, you can customize your order. For example, you can ask for plain soft serve in a cup to save calories. Similarly, you could skip the drizzle on the apple pie. For soft serve, plain ice cream reduces calories.
What to Avoid to Reduce Calories
Some McDonald's desserts have a lot of calories. Avoid McFlurries, especially with toppings, as they can have over 400 calories in a small size and over 600 in the regular size. Milkshakes are also high in calories; a large strawberry shake can have over 800 calories. It's important to know about these high-calorie options.
Making Smart Choices at Fast Food Restaurants
Choosing a lower-calorie dessert doesn't mean missing out on enjoyment. The key is to eat in moderation. Knowing about the options lets you enjoy a treat while meeting your health goals. There are satisfying options available, such as apple slices or a small vanilla cone. For more healthy eating tips, see the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Conclusion
While not known for its health focus, McDonald's has some low-calorie dessert choices. Apple slices are the best for low calories, while the vanilla soft-serve cone and chocolate chip cookie provide a classic treat without excess calories. By using the nutritional table and avoiding items like McFlurries and large shakes, you can make good choices. The best approach is to be informed and choose a portion-controlled option.
