Making The Most of Mexican

Let's face it. Mexican food is delicious! But did you know that the basket of chips and salsa you've just inhaled has over 1000 calories and 50 grams of fat?  Or that the 10 oz. margarita you're sipping on has over 500 calories? And sadly you've consumed that much before your fajitas even hit the table!The good news is you can make your meal (and weight) a little lighter with a few simple swaps.  Whether you're eating at a popular build your own burrito type restaurant (you know who I'm talking about) or making Mexican at home, follow the tips below for lighter Mexican fare. Ole!1. Corn tortilla or wheat? When making Mexican at home, go for corn tortillas. The ingredient list is short and 2 tortillas have only 130 calories, 50 grams of sodium and 2 grams of fiber. A large flour tortilla can add an extra 200 calories to your plate.  Ask for soft corn tortillas when out, too.2. Beans or rice?.  Beans! Traditional black and/or whole pinto beans are loaded with appetite-squelching fiber and protein, so they fill you up between meals. In addition, beans help manage blood sugar and lower cholesterol.  Rice is nice, but most restaurants carry only white rice, which is high in calories and carbohydrate, but not much else.  Brown rice is higher in fiber, but does not contain nearly as much as beans.3. Salsa or Cheese?  Salsa!  Salsa is not just a condiment. It's a vegetable!  At just 10 calories in 2 tablespoons, you'll get a decent dose of vitamin C, potassium and lycopene, a nutrient found to reduce prostate and ovarian cancer.  If you must have cheese, go light.  At home, try 2% milk shredded cheese to reduce fat and calories.4. Guacamole vs Sour Cream?5. Wrap or bowl?  Bowl please.  Load your bowl with lots of lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, salsa and beans and go easy on the beef, chicken and cheese.  You'd be surprised at how filling all those vegetables can be.  You won't even miss the rice or wrap.