When asked what my favorite food is, my first response is generally the deliciously overstuffed chimichanga. Well, I would also say nachos of extreme portions follow a close second. Doesn’t this mean I am a fan of yummy, delicious, and healthy Mexican food?
Apparently, the Center for Science in the Public Interest reported that healthy Mexican food was a myth. Filled with excessive sodium and fat, this cuisine was the leading cause of obesity in our society with foods containing fatty cheeses and fried overindulgences.
However, I failed to believe that something so good could be so bad for you. What I found was that there are many types of this cuisine, and no, not all of that will lead to a healthier and longer life.
Traditional, healthy Mexican food is extremely good for you. Rich in complex carbs, fresh meats, fruits, and vegetables, this is a food that will be both fulfilling and extremely good for you. However, many people try to state that Tex-Mex cuisine is bad for you and traditional foods from Mexico are healthier. The truth is that Tex-Mex cuisine can be just as beneficial if prepared correctly. Because whether you call it one type of foods or the other, there is a choice you have to make.
In general, American cuisine overcompensated for the lack of true taste and flavor by adding artificial flavors, colors, and even flavor enhancers such as MSG. Americanized version of any type of cuisine is filled with that artificial additives that we, as a people, are often addicted to without even knowing it. Not only are we finding ourselves addicted to fast food, but our bodies are revolting over the assault of artificial flavor enhancers and additives we are adding commonly to our food.
Take the tortilla chip. Pretty common staple for anyone who enjoys either healthy Mexican food or the best in Tex-Mex cuisine.
Head down to the local grocer. Pick up a random bag of tortilla chips. Mm, those taste good! Maybe a bit salty, but none the less, those are good. Now look at the ingredients. Chances are good you will find MSG in unhealthy doses. MSG is monosodium glutamate. Used in moderation, it is a great addition to any meal, but unfortunately, many companies will use 100 times the normal recommended dose. This means that your body will crave the MSG. Now you understand why you cannot stop at just one!
If you choose to make your own tortilla chips, you know what you put into the food. You make them yourself, and they are delicious, but you can stop when you want to stop not when an addiction is telling you to stop. This is a healthier choice for you and your family.
Instead of MSG or other addictive flavor enhancers, healthy Mexican food uses a combination of delicate and robust flavors with brilliant colors. All of your senses are fed instead of just your mind. When you recognize the difference, you will understand that real foods from Mexico are indeed healthier and filled with the good things you and your family needs.