You may see dieting as the need to avoid your favorite foods, such as Chinese food, but this can lead to frustration, binges or simply giving up on your diet. Dieting doesn't need to keep you from eating Chinese food. If you take the time to consider your options, Chinese food can offer a healthful option when following a weight-loss plan such as the South Beach Diet.
The Plan
The initial phase of the South Beach Diet lasts for two weeks, and during this time you must cut sugar and carbs from your diet. During this phase you cannot have rice or noodle dishes, and you should not eat anything breaded. The focus of this phase is to eat lean proteins and plenty of vegetables to help you reduce your cravings for unhealthy carbs. You can have a small amount of healthy oils, such as olive oil, during all phases of the diet.
In the second phase, you can add in whole grains, such as brown rice and whole-wheat noodles. This part of the phase will take you through to your goal weight. Once you meet your ultimate goal, you can then follow the third phase, a maintenance phase which allows all foods, but you should keep moderation in mind.
Dining Out
If you go out for Chinese food, or if you order take out, consider your allowed foods for the particular phase. During the first phase, for example, you can order a vegetable stir fry with chicken breast. Don't hesitate to ask about the way the chef will prepare a certain dish, such as the type of oil, sauces or other condiments used. This will help you determine the best option.
Once you reach the second phase of the diet, you can have steamed brown rice with your meal, but keep the same principles in mind, continuing to follow a low-fat, low-carb menu.
Eating In
Eating in a restaurant may cause some stress when you follow a restricted diet, but one way to avoid this is to fix your own Chinese meal. Cut broccoli, onion and bell peppers, or any other vegetables you enjoy, and saute these in a small amount of oil, water or fat-free broth. Add a 1/2 tsp. of soy sauce or other low-carb, no sugar flavorings. You can saute a lean protein to go with your vegetables, and pair this with a large salad.
Condiments
Some restaurants use monosodium glutamate, also known as MSG, for flavoring, but you should avoid this additive. Certain condiments, such as soy sauce or miso may contain MSG as well, so read labels and ask questions if necessary. You should also avoid cornstarch, and some dishes, particularly those with a sauce, may contain this product.
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