If you use TikTok, you’ve probably come across TikToker @SmallerSam_PCOS, who has gone viral with her low-calorie fast food orders and menu hack videos. Sam has lost 246 pounds – 200 of those naturally through exercise and a calorie deficit, and 46 pounds with the help of semaglutide to treat her PCOS. In one of her viral clips, Sam shared a Taco Bell order that’s under 500 calories and packed with protein, an essential nutrient for anyone trying to lose weight as it promotes satiety.
Before we get started, it’s important to know that everyone’s weight loss experience is different. What’s effective for one person may not be the best plan for another. Additionally, fast food is not a healthy option to turn to regularly, whether you’re trying to live a healthy lifestyle or lose weight. However, a sustainable diet means indulging every now and then. On “treat yourself” days, certain items on the menu at chains like Taco Bell are lower in calories and are overall better choices than others.
TikToker Sam makes the ordering process easier with her tips and tricks for low-calorie meals. This post is for all the Taco Bell fans out there.
Taco Bell’s Cantina Chicken Bowl – with a twist – is under 500 calories and is a solid choice for those watching their figure.
Nutritional values (per bowl):
Calories: 460
protein: 20+g
Sam pointed out in her video that she continues to maintain a calorie deficit for weight loss without giving up some of the foods she really enjoys eating, like fast food. Her favorite low-calorie Taco Bell order includes the chain’s Cantina Chicken Bowl, which totals 490 calories and 25 grams of protein, but instead of the seasoned rice, she substitutes potatoes (100 calories) and nacho cheese (30 calories) and skips the green avocado salsa packet. The total calorie count with these substitutions is 460 calories. Additionally, Sam chose to wash down her meal with a medium sugar-free Baha Blast.
TikTok users were quick to comment and rave about Sam’s delicious, lower-calorie order. One user wrote, “The potatoes and cheese instead of rice is so clever,” and another commented, “Thank you for this!! I’ve only been losing weight for two months and had NO idea about these meal ideas!!”
Another TikToker practically ran out the door to Taco Bell and wrote, “Girl I’m getting this now.” We can’t blame them!
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Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is the Deputy Editor of Eat This, Not That! at Mind + Body. She oversees the M+B channel and provides readers with exciting topics on fitness, wellness and self-care. Read more about Alexa
