Other than pizza, Chinese food is apparently one of the most popular dishes
	  for takeout among Americans. As much as Chinese food appeals to almost
	  everybody’s palate, the question remains- is it healthy? Chinese food often
	  consists of spicy dishes and authentic cuisine which makes it a favorite
	  among native Chinese and American foreigners alike.

	At times though, when one takes time to be mindful, Chinese food can be
	  anything but a healthy dinner. Chinese food, as noted by its aficionados,
	  is often high in saturated fats and simple carbohydrates. But Chinese food
	  lovers need not be discouraged as they can resort to alternatives which
	  can make their Chinese meal or takeout equally tasty yet contains less of
	  the harmful substances which can lead to the gradual onset of potentially
	  threatening diseases.

	It can make a world of difference when one makes the right choice on the
	  menu when out to have a delightful meal of Chinese food. For instance,
	  ordering foods rich in protein such as chicken or beef dishes and those
	  containing ample veggies can be a much more healthier choice which
	  has better nutritional value.

	Or perhaps one can opt instead for Chinese food such as sautéed cashew
	  chicken or beef with broccoli rather than fried dishes such as sesame or
	  sweet and sour chicken. Sauteed chicken or beef with vegetables provide
	  more nutritional value rather than traditional Chinese plates such as
	  lo mein lack.

	Lo mein lack, as much as it is one of the Chinese food favorites contains high
	  amounts of bad fats and carbohydrates as it is mostly consisted of noodles
	  and oil. One must also ensure that the Chinese restaurant they frequent
	  serves food without using MSG. As much as there have been conflicting
	  reports about the poor nutritional value of MSG, it is best that one be wary
	  by doing away with that potentially harmful ingredient.

	Chinese food almost always goes with side dishes, and for healthier ones,
	  it is better to order a sumptuous cup of soup rather than wontons and
	  fried egg rolls. As much as it is basic to Chinese food, it is better to skip
	  fried rice as well as it abounds in cholesterol and unnecessary
	  carbohydrates.

	A better alternative would be brown rice which is apparently more healthful
	  than fried rice or even white rice. On the day when one decides to go
	  Chinese, it is best that they limit their intake of sodium-rich foods as well.
	  Otherwise, their sodium intake can be aggravated as Chinese food is often
	  high in sodium as apparent in the frequent use of soy sauce and other
	  additives.

	And when one is about to indulge in the pleasure of eating Chinese food,
	  they better skip adding more salt. And peanuts, they are to be eaten
	  in moderation. One’s choice of Chinese restaurant can be vital when it
	  comes to deriving health benefits from Chinese food. In most cases, high
	  end Chinese restaurants have a special menu which specifically offers
	  healthy options.

	Otherwise, one should not hesitate to ask the server or the manager of the
	  Chinese restaurant as they are most knowledgeable about the cuisine.