Dining on Mexican cuisine and sipping Margaritas often is associated with relaxation and that full, sleepy feeling that Mexican food provides. But, as much as we love to eat it, we also know that many dishes can be high in fat and not very healthy. Today's American-style, Mexican foods have resulted from the combined culinary influences of early Spanish settlers and indigenous peoples. The food has become a part of the American diet, regardless of our heritage. Many of these recipes, however, are very high in fat.
Studies show that obesity is on the rise.
Approximately one-third of adults in this country are overweight or obese. Being overweight puts us at greater risk for diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and some forms of cancer. We feel we should eat every bite. We enjoy the value but the extra fat and calories can put us at risk. It may not be exactly the same as the traditional version, but modifying recipes is one way to bring us closest to the foods we like without giving them up.