What does Mexican food mean to the average American? Generally, most people will say that Mexican food is good food. And why not? The fact is that a lot of Mexican dishes and delicacies taste good and are usually served in huge quantities. Just what the average American would love to have.

From the point of view of good nutrition, is Mexican food good or bad? The right answer is- it depends. First let us understand the qualities of Mexican food.

Mexican foods are served in large quantities.

They contain lots of fat, sugar and salt.

Mexican foods go with desserts, usually fried.

Mexican foods taste great.

From the four qualities above, most dieticians would probably condemn Mexican food as health hazard. Burt from available evidence, it appears most Americans are in love with Mexican food.

The good news is that you can still enjoy your burritos, tacos, nachos and quesadillas. It is simply a matter of using your own initiative next time you dine at a Mexican restaurant.

Know What You Are Eating:

You walk into a Mexican restaurant but you cannot speak Spanish. Meanwhile the menu is in Spanish. Don't order anything blind. Ask for a translate and know exactly what you are about to eat before your order for it.

Ask for half Portions:

Mexican dishes are served in huge portions. In that case you can simply order a half portion. If you order the whole lot, chances are you will finish it off against your better judgment.

Avoid fried Foods:

If you order fried foods in a Mexican restaurant you are asking for trouble. Mexican fried foods are fried and refried. The result is too much oil which translates to excess fats and calories. Instead of fried foods, order food that is baked. For instance, you order baked quesadillas in place of fried chimichangas.

Don't Order Topping:

Mexican foods tend to be fatty and topping is not an exception. Don't order sour cream and guacamole. These are full of fat. If you can, use salsa as an alternative. It is low in fat but contains vitamins and even antioxidants.

Don't Go Alone:

Considering the six of the average Mexican dish, it would be a wise to go to a Mexican restaurant with a friend or two. That way, you can share the massive meals. For instance, three guys can share two meals and they will be almost over fed. Now if just two guys that those two meals. Now you get the picture.

Order The Real Thing:

One funny thing about Mexican restaurant is that some of them seem to cook for American tastes. The traditional Mexican dishes are prepared with nutritious spices like chilies, garlic, cloves, cinnamon and cumin. The main dish is also rich in beans and corn. These are very good foods in their own right.

Next time you go to a Mexican restaurant, order the real thing and enjoy it. Try corn tortillas and salsa. This is mainly corn and tomatoes with other healthy ingredients added.

As long as you ask for healthy Mexican dishes, you don't have anything to worry about. Mexican food is healthy and rich especially if you can get the real McCoy.

Learn more about this author, Emmanuel Osondu.
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