Steer Clear of These 13 Less Nutritious Options When Eating at Chinese Eateries
Readyfor a Chinese feast but concerned about your health? Swipe right on these 13 dishes that might derail your fitness goals.
- Lo Mein: This mouthwatering noodle dish is a home run on the tastebuds, but its high carbohydrate count and potential for added oils and sauces can make it a calorie bomb. Opt for a lighter version in moderation.
- Dumplings: Tiny pockets of dough filled with delicious meat and veggies, dumplings are a popular choice. However, the frying method increases the calorie count, sodium, and fat levels. Be mindful of your portions, especially when they're fried.
- Moo Shu Pork: Stir-fried pork with tasty veggies like cabbage, mushrooms, and carrots, wrapped in a pancake- oh, the fun! However, the high sodium content from the sauce and the calories from the pork can add up. Enjoy it occasionally.
- Hot and Sour Soup: A comforting broth with spicy and tangy flavors, often containing high sodium levels and additives that might detract from its nutritional value. Savor it with caution or try making it at home with healthier alternatives.
- Beef Chow Fun: Boasting wide rice noodles, stir-fried beef, veggies, and soy sauce, this filling dish can lead to high calorie and sodium intake, especially with fatty cuts of beef and the cooking method. Opt for leaner meats and request less sauce for a healthier version.
- Chow Mein: Crispy or soft noodles tossed with a variety of proteins, vegetables, and soy sauce, chow mein packs a punch of flavor but also high sodium levels and unhealthy fats. Moderation is key.
- Sweet and Sour Pork: This vibrant-hued dish is loaded with sugar, vinegar, and ketchup, with fried pork for texture. The high sugar content and fat can lead to excessive calorie intake. Enjoy it in moderation.
- Egg Rolls: These crispy pastries with a filling of veggies and sometimes meat are deep-fried, increasing the calorie content and unhealthy fats. Be careful with your serving sizes and sauces.
- Peking Duck: Known for its crispy skin and tender meat, this dish is enjoyed on special occasions due to its high fat content. Savory it occasionally to treat yourself without guilt.
- Fried Rice: Cooked rice mixed with a slew of ingredients, including oils and sauces, fried rice can be a calorie trap. Use caution when it comes to portion sizes.
- Kung Pao Shrimp: Shrimp stir-fried with peanuts, veggies, and a spicy sauce, this dish boasts a mix of textures but can be high in sodium and sugar. Mind your portion sizes for a healthier choice.
- Beef with Broccoli: A visually appealing dish featuring beef and broccoli in a savory sauce, this hearty meal can be high in sodium, fat, and calories. Opt for leaner meats and request less sauce to create a healthier version.
- General Tso's Chicken: A classic dish that hubbubs with flavors, this chicken dish is often deep-fried and drenched in a sweet and spicy sauce, which can add up to a high calorie count. Enjoy it wisely.
Remember, navigating a Chinese restaurant menu doesn't have to be daunting. Embrace dishes that are steamed, stir-fried, and packed with veggies, and don't hesitate to request sauces on the side. Making wise choices enables you to enjoy a scrumptious, wholesome meal. Go ahead, dig into the menu, and make choices that charge your energy levels. Dining out should be a delightful, healthy experience!
- Incorporate a healthy-diets approach by opting for steamed dishes like bok choy or steamed dumplings, which offer a less calorie-dense alternative to some popular Chinese choices.
- For a nutritious food-and-drink option, consider choosing a hot and sour soup made with a stock-based broth, and request for reduced sodium and added vegetables to boost its nutritional value.
- Adopt a science-based lifestyle by focusing on healthy-diets that emphasize lean proteins, unprocessed whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in your Chinese feast, ensuring a balanced and fulfilling meal.
