How to Savor McDonald’s Favorites Without the Guilt: Tips for Active Living and Maximizing the Rewards App

Misha Turtle Island
3 min readMar 11, 2024

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Turtle McDonalds Tank Image created by Turtle Island, Midjourney v6

Indeed, this piece is about McDonald’s, and it’s not sponsored content. I’m simply a fan eager to spread the word about the Articles feature on X, and what better subject than McDonald’s to do so? Here’s a reshare of my original article from X.com, where I delve into my McDonald’s experiences and insights. Why keep this knowledge to myself when I can share it with the world?

Some people are astonished when they discover how frequently I indulge in McDonald’s while maintaining a slim figure. The key to this seemingly miraculous balance lies not in depriving myself but in a blend of smart choices and an active lifestyle. Here’s how I manage to enjoy my fast-food favorites without letting them take a toll on my health or wallet.

Embracing an Active Lifestyle

First and foremost, I lead a pretty active life. Unlike many, I opt to skip the convenience of driving for the benefits of walking. On a typical day, I log anywhere between 10,000 to 20,000 steps. This not only helps me burn calories but also keeps my metabolism revving throughout the day. The secret isn’t in avoiding foods you love; it’s about balancing those choices with an active routine.

Smart Ordering with the McDonald’s App

Another crucial aspect of my McDonald’s strategy is smart ordering. While the prices at McDonald’s, especially in bustling areas like New York City, can seem steep (with a Big Mac Meal sometimes costing around $15), I’ve found a way to make it both affordable and enjoyable. The key? The McDonald’s Rewards App.

Leveraging Deals for Quality Fast Food

McDonald’s, in my opinion, offers some of the best-quality burgers in the fast-food realm. Of course, there are always detractors, but for those who appreciate a good burger without breaking the bank, the app is your best friend. Here’s a breakdown of how I maximize my savings:

McDonalds March Deal Roundup, iOS App
  • Big Mac: With the app, you can snag a $2 Big Mac Deal. If you’re extra hungry, there’s even an option to order 2 Big Macs for a total of $5.59 using a Buy One Get One (BOGO) offer.
  • Quarter Pounder with Cheese: Available for a BOGO total of $4.59.
  • 10 pc Chicken McNuggets: These too come with a BOGO offer, costing you $4.99 in total.
  • Breakfast Sandwiches: BOGO

Special Deals for Sports Fans

For residents of the New York Metropolitan area, the app offers additional perks. Depending on the success of regional sports teams, you can access exclusive deals like:

  • $2 10 pc Chicken McNuggets if the New York Islanders win.
  • Free Medium Fries with a minimum purchase of $1 in the app, celebrating a Brooklyn Nets away win.

The Bottom Line

My approach to frequenting McDonald’s without compromising my health or weight revolves around staying active and making informed choices. At the end of the day, discipline is the most important thing when it comes to a diet. I have always been a big proponent of Calories In, Calories Out philosophy when it comes to diets.

By walking extensively and utilizing the McDonald’s app for the best deals, I manage to enjoy my fast-food cravings in moderation. It’s not about strict diets or completely avoiding your favorite treats; it’s about balance and smart decision-making. Next time you’re considering a meal at McDonald’s, remember these tips, and you too can savor your fast-food favorites without guilt.

Where are my fries bro? Midjourney v6

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Misha Turtle Island
Misha Turtle Island

Written by Misha Turtle Island

This is Turtle Island 🐢 Design Strategy & Media Collective; Personal receipts 🧾 Consulting, Analytics, Tech, Ex-Strat Op, Comms | Jesus ✝️ Swiftie 🎶 🏳️‍🌈

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