4 Thai Dishes Perfect for a Healthy Diet

According to research, about two-thirds of British people are on a diet “most of the time,” meaning that a healthy diet is a necessity for many across the country. From salads to meals that include heaps of veggies, it may seem like ordering in is never an option. However, there are several Thai dishes out there that can be quite healthy for anyone who’s currently watching their calories. Whether you’re planning to order in or are actually going on holiday to Thailand, here are the four most healthy Thai dishes that can make the perfect addition to any healthy diet.

An even healthier salad

While your typical salad might consist of lettuce, tomatoes, and other healthy ingredients, a Thai salad might just provide an even healthier alternative. Full of fruits and veggies, a Thai green papaya salad contains the main ingredient of shredded green (unripened) mango, along with green beans, tomatoes, and peanuts. Some variations also include brown sugar, fish sauce, or shrimp, as well. While the salad provides a generous helping of vitamin C and fiber, the peanuts add a crunch of protein and heart-healthy fats - making it a go-to option for lunch or dinner, or just as a healthy snack on the way to the gym.

A protein-packed staple

A signature for many restaurants in Bangkok — not to mention in Thai restaurants around the world — is Pad thai, a stir fry dish usually made with rice noodles and sauteed with ingredients like peanuts, egg, bean sprouts, and spices. In many restaurants, you’ll have the option to add a protein of your choice, such as chicken or shrimp, or vegetarian options like tofu or extra veggies. In any case, a serving of pad thai can bring a healthy dose of lean protein, vegetables, and carbs. However, watching your portion intake is key with this dish, especially if you’re monitoring your calorie intake. This is because pad thai can be quite heavy in terms of calories - a one-cup serving pf the delicacy can have as many as 400, meaning it can add up fast if you aren’t paying attention.

Tom yum soup

Tom yum soup is another Thai favorite and due to its ingredients, a surprisingly healthy one too. Usually cooked with shrimp, tom yum soup is the perfect Thai dish for anyone who is watching their calorie intake, as a single one-cup serving contains fewer than 100. Because of this, the popular hot and sour dish contains fewer calories and is lower in fat than many other soups that are made with coconut milk, for instance. However, that isn’t all that tom yum soup is known for, as there is one study that shows the dish may have cancer-fighting properties as well, thanks to ingredients like chili peppers, lime, mushrooms, and lemongrass. The study, by Kasetsart University (in Thailand), and Kyoto and Kinki Universities (in Japan), found that the soup’s ingredients are significantly more effective in inhibiting the growth of cancerous tumors than other foods.

Chicken satay

Whether you’re at home or actually in Thailand, chicken satay can be the perfect dish for anyone in need of a lean protein snack or meal. Generally served with a peanut sauce, chicken satay is served on a skewer, and is usually grilled. In terms of health benefits, those who enjoy this dish can reap the protein benefits it holds, and especially so for those who lead an active lifestyle, as the protein can be an excellent source of energy to power you through your day.

For many across the country, eating healthy can be a staple in terms of losing weight, sculpting the perfect figure, or just leading a healthier lifestyle. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t eat delicious take out food, as there are several Thai dishes that fit in perfectly with a healthy diet.