2/18/2008

Chinese Food: Good or Bad?

Chinese food can be healthy if you know which dishes to choose.
The following ingredients can be found in many dishes and are considered really good for you:

Citrus fruits: Are good sources of Vitamin C and flavonoids; they also have a long history in the Chinese culture. Fruits like oranges, pommelos, and tangerines are traditional symbols of happiness, prosperity, and good fortune. You'll find them tossed with chicken or beef just to add tanginess to dishes. You can use fresh citrus juice instead of salad dressing (lemon juice or olive oil) in your salad to cut down on calories.

Brown Rice: Obviously, rice is a staple food in the Chinese culture, but not all rice is the same. The best choice is whole-grain brown rice because of the health benefits of numerous nutrients and fiber.

Tofu: The cholesterol-lowering effect of soy and its role in preventing heart disease was widely recognized in the mid 1990s when the results of an analysis of 38 clinical studies were published. The results demonstrated that a diet with significant soy protein reduces total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (the "Bad" cholesterol) and triglycerides. Soy is found in vegetarian dishes to replace meat.

Bok choy: A Chinese-style cabbage packed with Vitamins A and C, iron, calcium and phytonutrients. Plus, it's very filling, high in fiber, and low in calories.

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