Maintaining a balanced diet can be challenging, especially when dining out. While the American Heart Association recommends a daily sodium limit of 2,300 milligrams for adults, with an ideal limit of 1,500 milligrams, many popular chain restaurant meals far exceed this threshold in a single serving. From seemingly lighter options to classic comfort foods, here are five major chain restaurant meals that pack an excessive amount of sodium.
Texas Roadhouse
While burgers are known for being indulgent, the Bacon Cheeseburger at Texas Roadhouse delivers a substantial 2,410 milligrams of sodium. However, seafood lovers should be even more cautious: the Grilled Shrimp Dinner, featuring 12 shrimp, contains an astonishing 4,520 milligrams of sodium, nearly doubling the recommended daily limit in just one meal.
Chili’s
The Buffalo Big Crispy Chicken Sandwich at Chili’s is another major sodium contributor, containing 3,400 milligrams. This meal, which features hand-battered chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, is served alongside white cheddar mac and cheese and fries, making the total sodium count exceptionally high.
Domino’s
Pizza is a well-known source of sodium, and the Spicy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza from Domino’s is no exception, packing 1,410 milligrams of sodium in just one-eighth of an extra-large pie. Side dishes can also quickly add up; a single four-piece order of Hot Buffalo Wings contains 1,520 milligrams of sodium.
Applebee’s
Appetizers and entrees at Applebee’s can easily push diners past their daily sodium limits. The Breadsticks with Alfredo Sauce contain 2,570 milligrams of sodium per serving. Meanwhile, the Hot Honey Glazed Chicken and Bacon Skillet contains 3,400 milligrams, a number that increases further if salad dressings or extra sides are added.
Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse features some of the highest sodium levels on chain menus. The 10-count Hot Kookaburra Wings contain 4,470 milligrams of sodium, while the Sweet BBQ Wings reach 5,170 milligrams. The highest sodium offender, however, is the Aussie Cheese Fries, which contain an overwhelming 9,330 milligrams of sodium.
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