Indian street food is known for its delectable taste, variety, and affordability. It is a big part of the country's culinary culture and heritage, but unfortunately, not all of it is good for your health. Some of the popular street foods can be high in calories, saturated fats, and cholesterol, which can lead to a range of health issues if consumed regularly. In this article, we will discuss the top five Indian street foods that you should avoid to maintain good health.
Street Foods To Avoid
1. Samosas
Samosas are a popular Indian snack that consists of a deep-fried pastry shell filled with a spiced vegetable or meat filling. They are delicious, but unfortunately, they are not very healthy. Samosas are high in calories and fat, with a single samosa containing around 260 calories and 16 grams of fat. They are also high in sodium, which can cause water retention and bloating. Regular consumption of samosas can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart disease.
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2. Vada Pav
Vada Pav is a popular street food from Mumbai, which consists of a deep-fried potato fritter sandwiched between a soft bread bun. It is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, but it is not very healthy. Vada pav is high in calories, with a single serving containing around 300-400 calories. It is also high in carbohydrates and fat, which can cause weight gain and an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
3. Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji is a popular street food from Mumbai that consists of a spicy vegetable curry served with a soft bread bun. It is a delicious and filling meal, but it is not very healthy. Pav Bhaji is high in calories, with a single serving containing around 600-800 calories. It is also high in saturated fats, which can increase cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.
4. Chaat
Chaat is a popular street food in India that consists of a mixture of fried dough, boiled potatoes, chickpeas, and spices. It is a delicious and flavorful snack, but it is not very healthy. Chaat is high in calories, with a single serving containing around 400-500 calories. It is also high in sodium, which can cause water retention and bloating. Regular consumption of chaat can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart disease.
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5. Jalebi
Jalebi is a popular Indian sweet that consists of deep-fried dough soaked in syrup. It is a favourite dessert among Indians, but unfortunately, it is not very healthy. Jalebi is high in calories and sugar, with a single serving containing around 500-600 calories and 100 grams of sugar. Regular consumption of jalebi can lead to weight gain, high blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Indian street food is delicious and full of flavour, but it is important to be aware of the health risks associated with some of the popular dishes. Regular consumption of high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar street foods can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. To maintain good health, it is recommended to limit your intake of these five street foods and opt for healthier options such as grilled or baked snacks, fresh fruits, and salads. Remember, a balanced and healthy diet is key to a long and healthy life.
