Losing weight does not have to be about boring supplements and shakes. Colorful, vibrant Mexican food is high in vegetables, beans and whole grains, all power foods for weight loss. Mexican food has some great spices and flavors that are low in calories. But not all Mexican food is created equal. Becoming familiar with the ingredients and preparation methods of various dishes can help you learn how to lose weight, while eating Mexican.
Mexican Beans
Beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are a perfect package of nutrients for weight loss. Beans are naturally high in fiber, high in protein and fat-free. Opt for black beans over refried to keep the calories down. Try preparing your own rice and beans using brown rice, pigeon peas and lots of Mexican spices. Garbanzo beans, or chickpeas, are another high-protein and high-fiber food, great for topping a Mexican salad.
Fajitas, Burritos and Chimichangas
If you are ordering Mexican food at a restaurant, it is important to be familiar with the terms so you know what you are getting. Fajitas are friendly to weight loss because they are usually self-assembled. Skip the meat and try vegetable fajitas. Add chopped tomatoes, lettuce and a sprinkle of cheese for a delicious meal. Burritos are baked in a flour tortilla. Try making them at home with whole-wheat or whole-corn tortillas for added nutrients. Chimichangas, empanadas and chalupas are usually deep-fried. Avoid these if you are trying to lose weight.
Mexican Flavors
With Mexican food, there is no need to compromise taste when watching your weight. It is easy to find calorie-free flavors. Squeeze fresh lime juice over rice or chicken. Skip the tortilla chips and dip crisp vegetable slices in salsa. Chop some jalapeno and hot red peppers to spice up your meal. A 2011 study in "Physiology and Behavior" found that people who start eating hot peppers immediately develop a lower appetite for fatty and sweet foods. Over time, you may become desensitized to this effect, so simply take the heat up another notch to keep your appetite in check.
High Calorie Mexican: Foods to Avoid
Unfortunately, not all Mexican food is created equal. Some dishes are fried and have a lot of added cheese and sour cream. If you are not sure, ask your waiter how the dish is prepared. Opt for baked or stir-fry options over fried food. Skip the sour cream and guacamole and go for salsa instead. If you are making Mexican at home, purchase reduced fat cheese, and use it sparingly. Fill up on vegetables, and add spices such as cumin, garlic and red pepper for a flavorful way to weight loss.
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