Happy Cinco de Mayo! To celebrate the heritage and culture that’s unique to Mexico today, many people feast on a delicious Mexican meal. Well known for its spiciness, intense flavor and colorful decoration””Mexican food also has, unfortunately, a reputation for its high fat and calorie content.
Dishes such as burritos, tacos, enchiladas and empanadas””stuffed with meat and smothered in cheese and sour cream””and deep fried tortilla chips (which kick off every restaurant meal, accompanied by high-fat guacamole!) aren’t exactly healthy.
But eating well, Mexican style, can be done! Just follow these tips:
“¢ Start by monitoring your intake. Place a handful of tortilla chips on a plate (rather than taking chip after chip from the bowl in the center of the table). Have a little guacamole (which contains healthy fats). But don’t take seconds!
“¢ Try substituting chicken or seafood””good sources of protein, vitamins and minerals””for red meat.
“¢ Load up on beans! They contain fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals, and they’re low in calories. Choose black beans over refried beans.
“¢ Substitute beans for meat in your favorite dishes.
“¢ Choose corn tortillas over white flour tortillas. They have fewer calories, less fat and more fiber.
“¢ Ask your server if the restaurant offers low-fat sour cream (or purchase it for your family if making the meal at home).
“¢Eat as many fresh veggies as possible, even if it’s only in the form of lettuce, tomatoes and salsa. Veggies provide protective antioxidants, and they fill you up. Eat a salad if the restaurant offers one.
“¢ Skip the syrupy margarita, or limit yourself to just one, if you must indulge.