7 Worst Latin Foods That Will Ruin Your Diet

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Losing weight is not an easy feat to do, especially when you’re surrounded with tamales, quesadillas or any guilty pleasures that warm your heart but add to your waistline. Here, we round up seven of the worst Latin food that will ruin your diet.

1. Chorizo and Red Meat

It's no secret that red meat is one of the worst diet killers for those who are trying to lose weight, and Latin dishes have incorporated this fat-laden meat into their recipes. For example, Que Mas says that a link of chorizo contains 300 calories, which is obviously not good if you want to stay fit. The outlet suggests cutting back on the beef, pork and other red meat and replacing them with alternative lean meat options like chicken and fish.

When eating out, Body Building suggests being a bit picky about what protein you will eat. Chicken and fish are always better choices but still be wary if they are breaded or deep fried.

2. Margaritas and Piña Coladas

When losing weight, Que Mas says that steering away from cocktails like margaritas and piña coladas will help your diet as these alcoholic beverages are packed with calories that a glass or two will already shoot up your calorie content. Instead of ordering these drinks, opt for a glass of liquor such as wine.

3. Tamales

According to Lindisima, tamales contain a lot of saturated fat and not a lot of nutritional value as they are made from lard, cornmeal, fat, spices and rich sauces. The outlet said that tamales should be eaten in regulation and only in special occasions as they may wreak havoc on your diet.

4. Tacos

There are generally two types of tacos, and Lindisima says that dieters should stay clear of Central American tacos, called flautas in Mexico, because they pack up so much calories as they are filled tortillas that are deep fried. However, the publication says that Mexican tortillas are a better option because they are not deep-friend and have veggies or meat in it. For a healthier option, pair your Mexican tacos with salsa fresca and greens.

5. Empanadas

Empanadas or any fried or breaded foods for that matter are surefire diet wreckers. Lindisma says that these type of dishes have a lot of empty calories and are rich in fat. For example, a bake empanada is a better option than the fried ones, or a low-fat version of chiles rellenos will give you lower calorie count than the normal one.

6. Refried Beans

Body Building suggests dieters to "reject the refried" in a bean dish and instead go for healthier options like pinto beans, which has protein, complex carbohydrates and iron that are good for your health.

7. White Potatoes and Rice

Latin food has so much potatoes and white rice involved in their dishes that Que Mas says that these ingredients not only makes you full but also gives you a heavier body. Also, they have less nutrients and fiber compared to sweet potatoes and brown rice, so when you're watching your weight, always be wise to choose what you're putting inside your body.