7 Taco Bell Items to Avoid If You’re Watching Your Health And 8 Smarter Orders That Still Satisfy

Taco Bell offers a variety of flavorful choices, but not all are ideal for those watching their health. In this guide, we highlight seven menu items best avoided if you’re health-conscious, and suggest eight alternative options that satisfy without compromising your wellness goals. Whether you’re cutting back on calories, sodium, or unhealthy fats, these recommendations will help you make smarter decisions at Taco Bell. Discover healthier swaps that still deliver the taste you crave, ensuring you can enjoy your meal without the guilt. Read on to find out which choices make the list.

1. Nachos BellGrande

The Nachos BellGrande might tempt you with its cheesy allure, but it’s a calorie-laden trap. Overflowing with over 740 calories, it’s a sodium-rich indulgence draped in processed cheese sauce. Imagine the layers of chips obscured by a heavy-handed pour of nacho cheese, topped with seasoned beef and tangy sour cream.

For health-conscious individuals, this dish spells hazard—not just for your calorie count but for your sodium intake.

Every bite offers a burst of flavor, yet behind the taste, it hides a hefty salt and fat content that might disrupt your dietary goals.

2. XXL Grilled Stuft Burrito (Beef)

Grande in name and nature, the XXL Grilled Stuft Burrito with beef is a heavyweight contender in the calorie and sodium arena. With over 860 calories packed into every bite, it’s a formidable foe for those watching their waistlines.

This burrito is more than just a meal; it’s a sodium-wrapped calorie brick. Each component—from the seasoned beef to the creamy sauces—adds layers of indulgence.

While it may satisfy the heartiest of appetites, it demands caution. Opting for alternatives can help steer your diet back on track.

3. Mexican Pizza

The Mexican Pizza returns with nostalgic flair but lacks in the nutrition department. Its layers of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crisp tortillas create a flavor symphony that’s hard to resist.

Yet, this melodious dish is fraught with pitfalls for the health-conscious diner. Each layer contributes to a calorie count that quickly adds up, along with a dose of sodium that competes with your daily limit.

While its taste might evoke memories of simpler times, the nutritional trade-off is significant. Consider balancing your choices with healthier alternatives.

4. Cheesy Gordita Crunch

A culinary hybrid, the Cheesy Gordita Crunch brings together a soft flatbread and a hard taco shell in a harmonious, albeit caloric, embrace. With over 500 calories in each serving, it’s a treat for the taste buds, but a challenge for your health goals.

Its creamy sauces and seasoned beef offer savory satisfaction, yet they also deliver a dose of saturated fat that might be more than you bargained for.

As delicious as it is, moderation is key with this item, or better yet, opt for a healthier menu choice.

5. Cinnabon Delights (12-pack)

Cinnabon Delights in a 12-pack might sound like a sweet deal, but it’s a sugary indulgence with a nutritional cost. Each tiny dough ball, filled with rich icing, is a fried treat that can derail your dietary discipline.

For those who cherish their heart health or monitor blood sugar levels, these delights pose a significant challenge. The appealing golden-brown exterior conceals ingredients that are heavy on sugar and fat.

While undeniably fun to eat, they are best enjoyed in moderation or saved for special occasions.

6. Beef Quesarito

The Beef Quesarito is a fusion of flavors and textures, offering cheesy satisfaction wrapped in a blanket of carbs. Its appeal is undeniable, yet its composition makes it a less-than-ideal choice for health-conscious diners.

Rich in cheese, sauce, and beef, it’s a concoction that can overwhelm your daily carbohydrate and sodium intake in just one sitting. This burrito’s convenience might tempt those looking for a quick meal, but it’s best approached with caution.

Choosing lighter options can help you maintain balance without sacrificing taste.

7. Double Decker Taco Supreme

The Double Decker Taco Supreme combines the best of both taco worlds—a crunchy shell and a soft tortilla joined in delicious unity. Beans act as the adhesive, adding protein but also extra calories and sodium.

While the taste is a winning combination, for those with health goals, it’s a tricky balance. The added cheese and sour cream elevate the flavor but also the saturated fat content.

Moderation or opting for a single-layer taco might better align with wellness objectives while still satisfying your cravings.

8. Power Bowl (Chicken or Veggie)

The Power Bowl offers a nutritious punch with its blend of protein, fiber, and flexible ingredients. Choosing chicken or veggie options allows diners to customize their meal without sacrificing taste.

Packed with beans, greens, and lean protein, it’s a satisfying choice that can be tailored further—skip the cheese or sour cream to reduce fat and calorie content.

For those seeking a healthy, filling meal, the Power Bowl stands as a beacon of balance. Its wholesome ingredients and potential for customization ensure it meets diverse dietary preferences.

9. Black Bean Crunchwrap (Fresco Style)

Opt for the Black Bean Crunchwrap fresco style for a flavorful yet lighter option. This twist replaces meat with hearty black beans and swaps creamy sauces for fresh salsa, cutting down on both calories and sodium.

The result is a satisfying wrap that delivers on taste without weighing you down. It’s a creative adaptation that invites those wary of traditional fast-food pitfalls to enjoy without compromise.

Ideal for vegetarians or anyone seeking a fresher take, this Crunchwrap is both delicious and mindful of health considerations.

10. Chicken Soft Taco (Fresco Style)

The Chicken Soft Taco, especially when ordered fresco style, offers a leaner, more balanced fast-food experience. By trading creamy sauces for fresh salsa, this taco cuts unnecessary calories while keeping its savory appeal.

Grilled chicken provides a solid protein source, making it a fulfilling choice for those on the go. Its simplicity is its strength—fewer ingredients mean fewer opportunities to veer into unhealthy territory.

For those prioritizing health without sacrificing flavor, this taco delivers a delicious compromise that respects dietary goals.

11. Bean Burrito (Fresco Style)

The Bean Burrito fresco style is a fiber-rich option without the heaviness of meat or cheese. By opting for fresh salsa over creamy toppings, it reduces fat and sodium, making it a heart-smart choice.

Its simplicity ensures it’s both filling and flavorful, satisfying hunger without overindulgence. For those seeking a vegetarian-friendly option, this burrito is a sound pick.

It’s a testament to how a few ingredient changes can significantly alter a dish’s nutritional profile, aligning it closer with wellness goals.

12. Veggie Mexican Pizza (Custom Build)

Crafting a Veggie Mexican Pizza allows diners to enjoy the crunch and taste without the beef. Beans replace meat, offering protein and fiber, while fresh toppings contribute to a lighter, more balanced dish.

This customization reduces grease and maintains the beloved texture and flavor combinations. It’s a playful take on a classic, ideal for those who love the Mexican Pizza but prefer a more health-conscious approach.

Its adaptability means diners can tailor it further, ensuring each bite aligns with personal dietary preferences.

13. Cheesy Roll-Up (Kids’ Menu Hack)

The Cheesy Roll-Up might hail from the kids’ menu, but it’s a compact choice for anyone seeking a light snack. With just cheese and tortilla, it’s low in calories and offers a quick, satisfying bite.

This straightforward item is perfect for those moments when you need a little something without overcommitting to a full meal. It’s unpretentious and uncomplicated, delivering simple enjoyment.

Ideal for both kids and adults, its minimalist nature aligns with health goals when you need a modest indulgence.

14. Mini Skillet Bowl (Breakfast Menu)

Starting your day with a Mini Skillet Bowl ensures a balanced breakfast under 200 calories. Scrambled eggs, seasoned potatoes, and fresh pico de gallo create a harmonious combination.

For those looking to enhance nutrition, consider adding guacamole or swapping potatoes for black beans. It’s a versatile dish that adapts to various dietary needs while maintaining flavor.

This breakfast option is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a nutritious and satisfying meal.

15. Customize with the “Fresco” Option

The ‘Fresco’ option at Taco Bell is a game-changer for the health-conscious diner. By replacing cheese and creamy sauces with fresh tomato salsa, it instantly reduces calories and fat content in almost any menu item.

This customization opens the door to enjoying favorites without the nutritional regret. Whether you’re ordering a taco, burrito, or any other item, the fresco style ensures a fresher, lighter meal.

It’s a simple swap that has a profound impact on the dish’s nutritional profile, making healthier fast-food dining more accessible.