The Arby's Menu Item We Didn't Expect To Be One Of The Unhealthiest

In the world of fast food, Arby's is all about the meat. The restaurant chain offers a variety of sandwiches that not only showcase its famous roast beef, but also corned beef, brisket, and white meats like chicken and turkey. But, when it comes to finding something healthy on the menu, some may be mistaken to think it's all about the size of the bread, and look to its Crispy Chicken Club Wrap. The thin tortilla-like wrapping may appear to have fewer carbohydrates than Arby's brioche and sesame buns and its onion roll, but it's higher in carbs and also has enough sodium and saturated fat to fill one of the brand's signature 10-gallon hats.

In fact, it's the sodium and saturated fat you need to watch out for most when ordering at Arby's or any other fast food chain. Because of its potential to increase the risk for high blood pressure and stroke, the FDA recommends a maximum of 2300 milligrams of sodium per day. The maximum amount for saturated fat, which is linked to an increased risk for heart disease, is 22 grams. The Crispy Chicken Club Wrap alone has 1874 milligrams of sodium and 14 grams of saturated fat, making it one of the unhealthiest items you can order at the restaurant.

You might be able to eliminate some of the fat and sodium by ordering Arby's Crispy Chicken Club Wrap without either bacon or cheddar cheese. Arby's doesn't allow you to see the changes in the nutritional values by eliminating specific ingredients but both bacon and cheddar cheese are high in both saturated fat and sodium.

If you want a sandwich and are looking for healthier options you should probably go for Arby's Classic Roast Beef, which has 5 grams of saturated fat. Its sodium level is still high, at 970 grams, but nearly half that of the Crispy Chicken Club Wrap (along with half the calories). If it's chicken you really want, then go for either the three- or five-piece chicken tenders. Again, the sodium levels remain high — 1190 grams and 1990 grams, respectively — but three pieces have 3 grams of saturated fat and five pieces have 4.5 grams. If you want to plan in advance for the best option for whatever dietary concerns you may have, just check the nutrition info on the website before your visit.