Fat 2 Fit: Mastering the Ethnic Menu

Extra calories translate into extra pounds no matter what the language—so eat ethnic, but know how to speak and think "fit."

By: Carole Carson | Source: AARP.org | 2008-11-03

Whatever exotic cuisine you're enjoying, use these tips to help you zero in on healthy options.

● Know the Lingo. On many menus, "crispy" means "fried." In Japanese restaurants, avoid tempura and look for "shabu-shabu" (cooked in broth) or "yakimono" (broiled). In Spanish or Mexican restaurants, look for "al carbon" and "a la parilla," which mean "grilled."

● Soup It Up. Avoid creamy soups. Instead, look for broth-based soups, such as lemongrass soup.

● Go Brown. Ask for brown rice. Look for whole-grain breads.

● Sideline the Sauce. Ask for sauce on the side, whether it's a rich sauce or the thick, sweet sauces served with some Asian dishes. You have control when you can determine the amount of sauce to consume.

● Get Steamed. Eliminate dishes such as fried dumplings and fried rice. Replace them with steamed vegetables for lower fat and increased nutrition.