If you’ve ever enjoyed a steaming bowl of pho or a savory banh mi sandwich, you know just how addicting Vietnamese food can be. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or as a mouthwatering midnight snack, this specific cuisine serves more than just your palate. When you order from a Vietnamese restaurant, you’re taking advantage of the following health benefits.

Is Vietnamese Cuisine Healthy?

1. Improves Digestion

Even after you’ve worked your way to the bottom of the pho bowl, you won’t feel bloated. The aromatic broth is cooked with a medley of herbs, such as mint leaves and coriander, that manage gastrointestinal problems.

Fresh herbs might also be served on a side dish, so you can further supplement the soup. These plants are thought to aid in digestion, reducing bloating, abdominal pain, and heartburn.

2. Regulates Blood Sugar

Many Vietnamese dishes — like noodles and rice paper wraps — are made from rice instead of wheat and are therefore gluten-free. Even if you don’t have a gluten intolerance, this will help you avoid the sharp spikes and drops in your blood glucose levels, which can make you feel suddenly hungry and weak. Instead, your blood sugar will remain even after eating a Vietnamese lunch, so you can enjoy a steady source of energy and won’t be tempted to overeat.

3. Limits Sodium Intake

Fish sauce is an essential component of Vietnamese cooking; it’s often used as a starter or base, similar to olive oil in Italian kitchens. Fish sauce is made from pressing and fermenting anchovies.

While it boasts a strong, salty umami flavor, it’s surprisingly low in sodium. You can still enjoy a flavor-packed punch without putting your heart at risk. 

The next time you crave a delicious lunch without the fast-food guilt, turn to Mamasan's in Rochester, NY. This Vietnamese restaurant has satisfied hungry guests since 1984, and they’re proud to remain family-owned and -operated. Their menu offers a wide range of flavors and textures, from pho to crepes, and they also offer Thai specialties. To learn more, visit the website or call (585) 461-3290.