Fast food is deeply rooted in American dining culture. It’s quick, affordable, and often incredibly satisfying. But behind the convenience and indulgence, there’s a darker reality—especially when it comes to nutrition. While not every burger is equally unhealthy, some rise to the top of the list for all the wrong reasons. According to a recent study, the Five Guys Cheeseburger is officially ranked the unhealthiest fast food burger in America.
What the Study Found About America’s Unhealthiest Burgers
A detailed analysis by PlushCare, a telehealth platform, reviewed burgers from 24 major fast food chains, scoring them based on:
- Calorie count
- Saturated fat
- Sodium content
- Sugar levels
The Five Guys Cheeseburger scored a whopping 50 out of 100 on the unhealthiness scale, far ahead of its competitors. For context, the Whataburger Jalapeño & Cheese and Smashburger’s Classic Smash both scored 42.
What set the Five Guys burger apart? An overwhelming amount of calories, saturated fat, and sodium.
A Closer Look: Nutritional Breakdown of the Five Guys Cheeseburger
Calories
The cheeseburger clocks in at 1,060 calories—more than half the daily recommendation for most adults, especially those with a sedentary lifestyle.
Excessive calorie consumption contributes to:
- Weight gain
- Obesity
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
Fat Content
It contains 62 grams of total fat, with 30 grams of saturated fat—almost three-quarters more than many other fast food burgers.
Saturated fat is dangerous because it:
- Raises LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
- Promotes plaque buildup in arteries
- Leads to higher risk of heart disease and stroke
Sodium
This burger also delivers 1,310 milligrams of sodium, over half the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit of 2,300 mg.
High sodium intake is linked to:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Stroke
- Kidney problems
Sugar
While not a major component, the burger contains 1 gram of sugar, which slightly adds to its poor nutritional value.
Why These Nutritional Stats Matter for Your Health
Each of the above nutritional categories plays a specific role in long-term health outcomes.
Calories and Obesity
When you consume more calories than your body burns, the excess is stored as fat. Over time, this leads to:
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
- Insulin resistance
Saturated Fat and Heart Health
Diets high in saturated fats are directly linked to:
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- Elevated LDL cholesterol
- Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
The Five Guys Cheeseburger contains more saturated fat than most burgers on the market, placing it in a dangerous zone for cardiovascular health.
Sodium and Blood Pressure
Salt may enhance flavor, but too much can:
- Spike blood pressure
- Damage blood vessels
- Increase stroke risk
With more than 1,300 mg of sodium in one meal, the Five Guys Cheeseburger exceeds what many people should consume in an entire day.
Backed by Research: What Other Studies Say About Fast Food and Health
The PlushCare study isn’t the only research pointing to the dangers of fast food.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Findings
The NIH reported that regular fast food consumption is strongly linked to:
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
- Insulin resistance
These conditions are precursors to diabetes, heart disease, and other serious chronic illnesses.
American Heart Association Research
A study published in Circulation (AHA journal) found that eating high-fat, high-calorie foods like burgers:
- Raises the risk of coronary heart disease
- Contributes to arterial plaque buildup
- Raises blood pressure
Brain Health and Fast Food: UCLA Study
Researchers at UCLA discovered a link between fast food and cognitive decline. Diets high in fat and sodium can:
- Impair memory
- Reduce learning abilities
- Increase inflammation in the brain
How the Five Guys Cheeseburger Compares to Other Fast Food Burgers
Size and Customization
Five Guys burgers are larger and more customizable than those from McDonald’s or Burger King. Customers can add:
- Extra cheese
- Bacon
- Fried onions
- Sauces
The Health Risks of Regular Fast Food Consumption
If you eat fast food like the Five Guys Cheeseburger often, you may be at risk for:
Obesity and Weight Gain
The high-calorie density of fast food makes it easy to overeat and harder to maintain a healthy weight.
Heart Disease
Consistent intake of saturated fat and sodium promotes:
- Clogged arteries
- High blood pressure
- Heart failure
Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin resistance develops over time from excessive calorie and fat intake. Fast food plays a major role in this cycle.
Cognitive Decline
Emerging research links poor diet choices with memory loss and learning difficulties.
Tips for Making Smarter Fast Food Choices
- Watch portion sizes: Opt for single patties instead of doubles or triples.
- Skip extra cheese and bacon: These toppings add unnecessary fat and sodium.
- Ask for fewer condiments: Sauces often contain hidden sugars and salt.
- Choose water over soda: Sugary drinks only add empty calories.
- Balance your meals: If you eat fast food for one meal, make your other meals that day veggie-heavy and low in fat.
- Limit frequency: Treat fast food as an occasional indulgence, not a daily habit.
FAQs
Why is the Five Guys Cheeseburger considered the unhealthiest?
Due to its high calorie count (1,060), 62 grams of fat, and 1,310 mg of sodium, it significantly exceeds nutritional limits set by health organizations, making it a high-risk food for long-term health.
Is it okay to eat a Five Guys Cheeseburger once in a while?
Yes, moderation is key. Occasionally indulging won’t harm you, but regular consumption increases health risks.
How can I make my fast food burger healthier?
- Go bun-less or opt for a lettuce wrap
- Choose grilled over fried options
- Skip high-fat toppings like cheese and mayo
- Add vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onions
Are there healthier options at Five Guys?
While Five Guys is known for indulgent food, you can make smarter choices by:
- Ordering a “Little” burger (single patty)
- Skipping cheese and bacon
- Choosing water instead of a milkshake or soda