Mexican cuisine is often associated with large amounts of cheese, sour cream and lard, but it is possible to enjoy this type of food in a healthy way. According to MexicanFoodRecipes.org, traditional Mexican food is actually one of the healthiest cuisines because it focuses on fresh vegetables and grains. Understanding which ingredients are better choices will help you eat healthier both in a Mexican restaurant and at home when you prepare your own Mexican-style foods.
Foods to Choose
When you eat Mexican food, choose foods prepared in a healthy way. This means selecting soft tortillas, salsa made from fresh vegetables and low-fat cheese. Grilled steak, chicken, shrimp and fish make good fillings for enchiladas, tacos and burritos, as do whole black and pinto beans. Grilled vegetables are another filling for your tortillas that are low in calories and high in nutrients. Soft tacos and fajitas are two dishes that are healthier when you eat Mexican food. Add some guacamole to your meal, since avocados contain heart-healthy fats, but stick to one serving because it is high in calories. Rice is a healthy side dish, as is a salad with low-fat dressing.
Foods to Avoid
Many choices at typical Mexican restaurants in the United States are not actually traditional Mexican foods and are not healthy. Skip crispy taco shells because they are fried, which increases the fat and calorie content. Refried beans are often made with lard and should be avoided because they are very high in fat. Many of the sauces that cover burritos and enchiladas are made with a lot of oil, so order them on the side to reduce how much you eat or skip them in favor of fresh salsa. High-fat cheese adds flavor to Mexican food, but also drastically increases fat and calorie counts, so limit how much you eat. Skip the sour cream as well to make your meal healthier.
Restaurant Tips
When eating in a Mexican restaurant, check its website in advance to read the nutritional information so you can make the healthiest choices possible. Order your meal light on cheese and sauce and ask how your food is prepared to give clues about the healthiness of a particular dish. Restaurants tend to serve up plates that are more than one serving, so split an entree or take some home to eat the next day. Order an appetizer instead of an entree if you want a light meal. Look for the a la carte menu for more reasonable portions that will help you eat healthy.
Cooking Tips
When preparing Mexican food at home, use authentic recipes because they are healthier than Americanized versions. Use whole grain tortillas, brown rice, whole beans and fresh fruits and vegetables to increase your nutrient intake while keeping calories and fat within a reasonable range. Season your food with garlic, cayenne pepper, jalapenos, cilantro or onions instead of smothering it in high-fat sauces.
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