Order in the Food Court

‘Tis the season to do your holiday shopping. That means rushing from store to store as time permits. Of course, it goes without saying that you’ll likely become famished in the midst of those endless shopping sprees. Now, the mall food court isn’t exactly known for its diet-friendly fare, but that doesn’t mean you can’t partake in a healthy snack here or there. Needless to say, as tempting as those piping-hot Cinnabons (730 calories and 24 grams of fat) may be, there probably isn’t a place for them in your healthy holiday eating regimen. Here are some on-the-go snacks that are a far better fit. If your stomach is in knots, hit up an Auntie Anne’s and opt for an original pretzel with no salt or butter for just 310 calories and 5 grams of fat. If you’re not in the mood for a pretzel, then there’s nothing wrong with chickening out with a small cup of chicken noodle soup from Chick-fil-A, which total 140 calories. For those who aren’t afraid to put their diet on ice, try a half-cup of mango sorbet for 120 calories. For a really healthy endeavor, give into a 6-ounce fruit cup from Au Bon Pain for just 70 calories. There is always the favorite standby – McDonald’s – where you can get a kiddie cone (45 calories), a fruit ‘n yogurt parfait snack size with no granola (130 calories) or a reduced-fat regular vanilla ice cream cone (150 calories). Even Taco Bell’s Pintos ‘n Cheese is just 180 calories. Remember, before you take that coffee cake muffin from Dunkin’ Donuts (580 calories) and run, there are plenty of other snack options that won’t derail your diet efforts.