Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Chinese cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, but is it good for you? The answer to this question is a little complicated, as the healthiness of Chinese food can depend on the ingredients used, cooking methods, and portion sizes.
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of eating Chinese food, and provide tips on how to make healthier choices when ordering from a Chinese restaurant.
Is Chinese Food Good for You?
Whether Chinese food is good for you depends on several factors such as the ingredients used, cooking methods, and portion sizes. Some Chinese dishes, like steamed dumplings or vegetable stir-fry with tofu, can be healthy options due to their high vegetable content and low-fat cooking methods.
However, other dishes, like fried wontons or sweet and sour pork, can be high in calories, unhealthy fats, sodium, and added sugars. To make healthier choices when eating Chinese food, opt for dishes that are steamed, stir-fried, or grilled, and choose dishes with plenty of vegetables. Avoid dishes that are fried, smothered in heavy sauces, or high in sodium.
10 Healthy Chinese Food:
- Steamed dumplings
- Vegetable stir-fry with tofu
- Steamed fish with ginger and scallions
- Hot and sour soup
- Ma po tofu (tofu with spicy sauce)
- Kung pao chicken (stir-fry with vegetables and peanuts)
- Steamed broccoli with garlic sauce
- Fried rice with vegetables
- Moo shu pork (stir-fry with thin pancakes)
- Egg drop soup
The Unhealthiest Chinese Dishes To Avoid:
- Fried wontons
- Orange chicken
- Sweet and sour pork
- Fried rice with meat and sauce
- Egg rolls
- Moo goo gai pan (stir-fry with vegetables and chicken)
- Crab rangoon
- Chow mein with heavy sauce
- Sesame chicken
- Beef with broccoli in oyster sauce
Is Chinese Food Healthy to Eat?
Chinese food can be healthy, but it can also be high in calories, fat, sodium, and added sugars. The key to making healthier choices is to opt for dishes that are steamed, stir-fried, or grilled, and to choose dishes with plenty of vegetables. Avoid dishes that are fried, smothered in heavy sauces, or high in sodium.
Benefits Of Eating Chinese Food:
- Chinese food often includes a variety of fresh vegetables.
- Many dishes are low in fat and calories.
- Rice, noodles, and tofu are good sources of carbohydrates.
- Some dishes, like hot and sour soup, may have immune-boosting properties.
- Chinese cuisine often uses healthy cooking methods, such as steaming and stir-frying.
What Are the Disadvantages of Chinese Food?
- Some dishes may be high in sodium.
- Some dishes may be high in added sugars.
- Some dishes may be high in unhealthy fats, like trans fats.
- Many dishes are fried, which can increase calorie and fat content.
- Some sauces, like soy sauce and oyster sauce, may be high in sodium.
Is Chinese Food Healthier Than American Food?
It is difficult to compare the healthiness of Chinese and American food as a whole, as both cuisines offer a range of healthy and unhealthy options. However, many Chinese dishes are low in fat and high in vegetables, while many American dishes are high in fat, salt, and sugar.
Are Chinese Noodles Healthy?
Chinese noodles can be a healthy choice if they are served with plenty of vegetables and lean protein. However, noodles can also be high in calories, especially if they are fried or served with a heavy sauce.
Is Chinese Food Good for Stomach?
Some Chinese dishes, like hot and sour soup, may be good for the stomach due to their immune-boosting properties. However, other dishes, like those high in sodium and unhealthy fats, may not be as good for the stomach.
Are Noodles Healthier Than Rice?
Both noodles and rice can be a healthy choice, depending on the ingredients and preparation. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, but it is also high in calories, so portion control is important. Noodles can be lower in calories, but they can also be high in processed ingredients, so it is important to choose whole grain noodles when possible [1].
Is Fried Rice Good for You?
Fried rice can be high in calories and unhealthy fats, as it is often made with oil and can contain a lot of salt and sugar. To make fried rice a healthier choice, choose brown rice instead of white, and add plenty of vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Conclusion
Chinese food can be a healthy and delicious option, but it is important to choose wisely. Opt for dishes that are steamed, stir-fried, or grilled, and choose dishes with plenty of vegetables. Avoid dishes that are fried, high in sodium, or smothered in heavy sauces. Pay attention to portion sizes, and be mindful of the ingredients used in sauces and condiments. By making healthier choices, you can enjoy the flavors of Chinese food while still taking care of your health.
Reference:
- https://www.thejakartapost.com/life/2016/09/13/rice-vs-noodles-which-is-healthier.html
- Church’s Fried Chicken Menu & Prices - March 31, 2023
- What to Get At Raising Cane’s? - March 31, 2023
- Are Acorns Edible for Humans? - March 31, 2023