Seven Latino Foods for Diets

Often when you think of foods synonymous with a Latino diet, or foods that are associated with Latin culture, the word fattening comes to mind. Traditional dishes like tacos, guacamole and chimichangas loaded with sour cream and carbohydrates like beans and rice can cause you to pack on the pounds. But there are a number of foods that help make up this diet that are actually quite good for you as well.

A Healthy Diet Incorporating Foods Popular in Latino Culture

• Literally meaning "little tomatoes," tomalitos are reddish-yellow in color and are a great source of antioxidants. This is because they're bursting with folic acid, potassium and vitamins C and A. Garbanzo beans, also known as "chick peas," are incredibly high in fiber yet very low in natural sugar content. Used commonly throughout Latin America, these are a great source of protein so they'll give you energy all day long. Try adding them to salad.

Guacamole Has the "Good Fat"

• Avocados are high in fat, but don't worry--it's the "good fat," technically known as monosaturated fat. This fruit, commonly mistaken for a vegetable, is used to make the Mexican favorite guacamole and can help lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol levels.

  While it may hamper your love life, you should really try to incorporate garlic in most of your meals. Ironically, this spice has immune-boosting properties and has been said to even increase blood flow for a healthy libido. Garlic goes great with guacamole or any savory dish.

Spice Things Up

• Chilies are also a staple of Latino cuisine, and chipotle is one of the most standard. The popular Mexican flavoring is derived from smoke-dried jalapeño. Chili peppers are not only high in minerals and antioxidants but also contain capsaicin, which is known for its natural pain-relief properties.

  Another spice, cinnamon, is used in many Spanish desserts, such as flan and churros. Cinnamon is also a good antioxidant you can add to coffee or cereal.

  Another flavor booster is cilantro. This leafy favorite traditionally used in salsa is a great detoxifier, as it removes many toxins from the body, particularly heavy metals like mercury.

Meal Suggestions

• Need a suggestion for your first day on a healthy diet of Latino foods? Begin with a frittata (an egg-based dish similar to an omelet or quiche) for breakfast. Then keep yourself satisfied yet within your diet with a tuna niscoise salad for lunch, and end your day with a delicious dinner of grill-smoked salmon with chipotle mayonnaise. Light snacks throughout the day could consist of fruit salad spiced with chili and lime juice or toasted garbanzo beans.