Pick Up Stix opened its doors in 1989 in Southern California. The brainchild of a Chinese immigrant, the restaurant became a hit, opening up 70 locations to date. Pick Up Stix uses fresh ingredients in their made to order, Chinese inspired dishes, tailored to American tastes. The open kitchen allows patrons the opportunity to watch the preparation of their meals, which can be enjoyed in the casual dining room or as take out.
Calories
The United States government's recommended daily calorie consumption is 2000 to 2500 calories -- for adults. According to the nutritional information provided on Pick Up Stix's website, many dishes are calorie-counter friendly, such as those designated "Wok Wise," which contain 500 calories or less. There are six dishes, however, that exceed 1000 calories for a single serving. An example is the Teriyaki Beef Bowl with Egg Fried Rice, which contains 1220 calories.
Sodium
According to USA Today, United States government guidelines based on a 2000-calorie diet recommend 2300 mg of sodium intake daily. Chinese foods generally contain high amounts of sodium -- Pick Up Sticx being no exception. The Teriyaki Chicken Bowl with Egg Fried Rice, as an example, contained 4970 mg of sodium, far exceeding the government's recommendation. However, Pick Up Stix's menu provides many alternative dishes such as edamame, containing 48 mg per serving, and steamed lemon chicken, containing 70 mg per serving.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide the oomph needed for daily movement and healthy organ functions. The New York Times states Americans should get between 40 to 50 percent or 800 to 1000 calories daily from carbohydrates, based on a 2000-calorie diet. Pick Up Stix offers dishes that are low in carbohydrates throughout their menu. Teriyaki Bowl dishes, however, contain the most carbohydrates, ranging from 151 to 186 g, while most other dishes contain less than 100 g of carbohydrates per serving.
Saturated Fat
According to the American Heart Association, saturated fat is the foremost cause of high blood cholesterol. It is contained mostly in animal-based foods, such as beef, veal, lamb, pork and poultry, but can also be found in butter, cream, milk, cheese, coconut and palm oils.
The Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion recommends Americans limit daily intake of saturated fat to 20 g or less, based on 2000 calories daily. Pick Up Stix dishes, such as Plain Chow Mein, contain 0 g of saturated fat, whereas the House Special Tofu with Vegetables contains 9 g of saturated fat, more than any other dish on the menu.
Forewarning
The Epoch Times recommends ordering brown rice instead of white, and steamed or stir-fried items instead of deep-fried. Ask for sauces to be served on the side so you can limit the amount you consume. Nutritional information is available on all menu items at Pick Up Stix restaurants to help you order healthy choices.
References
- Pick Up Stix: About Us
- Pick Up Stix: Download: Nutritional Information
- USA Today:Health and Behavior: Can't Hide From Sky High Sodium, Calories at Chinese Resturants
- New York Times: Health Guide - Carbohydrates
- American Heart Association: Know Your Fats - Saturated Fat
- Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion: Dietary Guidelines for Americans
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