There are some restaurants where you can order with confidence, knowing the food is almost as pure as it would be straight from your own kitchen.  Some cities are blessed with more of these gems than others...so to make sure this applies to YOU, we're sticking with the biggest chain restaurants dispersed across the US.

CHIPOTLE

Why we love it:

• Local produce. This is huge! No matter how swell the delivery process, nutrients are lost when the produce is hauled across the US
• Hormone-free, organic meats. You are eating the animal, so it really matters what the animal is eating and/or being injected.
• Burrito bowls. The most flavorful pile of goodness!

But...watch out for:

• High sodium. Sour cream & cheese only add more sodium (and unnecessary saturated fat) You won't miss it...there's plenty of flavor without these dairy toppings!
• Portions.  Feel free to say "just a little" or else they tend to give you 3-5 servings of rice & beans.

REFIT RECOMMENDED MEAL

BURRITO BOWL with:

CHICKEN OR STEAK|BROWN RICE|BLACK BEANS|FAJITA VEGGIES|SALSA|CORN SALSA|LETTUCE|GUACAMOLE

Nutrition benefits:

• Huge dose of protein and healthy fat
• Entire day's worth of Vitamin A and Vitamin C

Noodles and Company

Why we love it:

• Not greasy! Noodles aren't swimming in fat. Instead, each dish is sautéed in a small amount of oil and prepared fresh.
• Hormone-free, antibiotic-free, organic lean meats. This protein can be added to any dish in 3 different styles: Asian, Mediterranean, or American/Italian. Fun!
• Gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options. The diverse menu is accommodating to common specialty diets, making it a winning choice for a group of people with different nutrition needs.

But...watch out for:

• A "regular" is more than double the size of the "small".
• The soups contain high doses of sodium without providing a lot of satisfaction. Opt for noodles & salad when pairing dishes.

REFIT RECOMMENDED MEAL

SMALL PENNE ROSA & SMALL MED SALAD

Nutrition benefits:

• Light and fresh, this meal weighs in under 600 calories and 900 mg of sodium and still full of flavor!
• Pasta is a great energy source, while the salad greens slow the absorption rate and keep you fuller longer.

Panera Bread

Why we love it:

• Committed to clean ingredients & transparent menu.  This includes, but is not limited to: artificial dyes, MSG, artificial trans fat or sweeteners, or added hormones. PLUS they share all the nutrition information with you...no secrets!
• Nutrient dense. Full menu of items that pack loads of vitamins, minerals, and well-portioned macronutrients without stacking up calories, fat, sugar, and sodium.
• Stellar options for kiddos. Grilled organic cheese on whole grain bread and organic yogurt are some items you can feel good about feeding little mouths when you're away from home.

But...watch out for:

• Bakery at the check out.  It smells good, looks good, (and tastes good). Try to resist purchasing before your meal.  If you still have room after the recommended meal, then go back for a treat.

REFIT RECOMMENDED MEAL

"The CHOOSE 2" with:

1/2 ROASTED TURKEY & AVOCADO BLT ON SOURDOUGH 

&

 1/2 POWER KALE CAESAR SALAD WITH CHICKEN

Nutrition benefits:

• Kale provides over a day's worth of Vitamin K and delivers the benefits of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
• Under 800 satisfying calories and under 900 mg of sodium.