In spite of challenges from other international brands, Tim Horton’s continues to reign supreme as Canada’s fave Coffee and Doughnut Shop. A dietician weighs in on what to order – and what not to order – at Tim’s, if you’re ‘woke’ to healthy eating…
Tim’s Crispy Chicken Craveable: One of the better nutritional choices on his menu…
I’ll bet you’re going over the Tim’s Menu in your mind as you read this, trying to guess what the ‘best’ and ‘worst’ items will be. You may be surprised…
Who is this oracle of health and wellness?
Tammy Lomond is a registered dietitian at JM Nutrition. She’s licensed with the College of Dietitians of Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador College of Dietitians, the College of Dietitians of Ontario, and is an active member of Dietitians of Canada. Along with her degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Western Ontario, she hold an MSc in Biology from Memorial University of Newfoundland.
So, listen up, folks. She’s the real deal!
Not the healthiest…
“Like most fast food restaurants, the majority of Tim Horton’s menu items are not the healthiest,” Lomond begins. “Many are high in calories, unhealthy fats, sodium and/or sugar.” But we knew that going in…
Lomond says it’s relatively easy for diners to determine the relative wholesomeness of any Fast Food by following a few simple rules:
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- Avoid super-sizing, opting for small portions instead.
- Look for items that are grilled or baked rather than fried.
- Choose a side salad instead of fries, if possible.
- Watch out for high-calorie add-ons, like creamy sauces, bacon, cheese or gravy.
- Choose water instead of sugary drinks.
Lomond also notes, its easier than ever to check the Nutrition Facts about foods thanks to our ubiq-uitous smart phones. Just look up the item you’re interested in at the chain’s website.
No need to totally abstain
Even Lomond admits she occasionally indulges at Fast Food joints such as Tim’s…
“Personally, I don’t eat or drink at Tims or any fast food restaurants on a regular basis. Just a few times a year, as needed, when travelling,” Lomond says. “Even then, I often bring my own food and drinks when [travelling]. I prefer to prepare food and coffee at home, where I have more control over what’s in it and its nutritional value. Plus, it’s more cost-efficient.”
What does Lomond order?
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- Black Coffee and Tea (pictured, top of page)
- Egg and Cheese English Muffin
- Crispy Chicken Craveable
- Garden Minestrone Soup
What Lomond avoids…
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- Iced Capp
- Hot Chocolate
- Creamy Chills
- Loaded wraps, bowls & flatbread pizza
My take
I agree with Lomond about the need to be aware of what you’re eating, especially at Fast Food joints. The nutrition ‘values’ and ‘caveats’ of their offerings can vary wildly. It’s a classic case of, ‘You can’t tell a book by it’s cover’…
But I also agree with Lomond that it’s okay to indulge in Fast Food occasionally – when a particular craving takes you – or you’re on the road and have no other option.
Sister Erin calls the former ‘slumming’… I Call it ‘fun’!
~ Maggie J.