“Spicy.” This is what usually comes to people’s mind when they hear about Asian food. Some people find it hard to appreciate after only one bite, while others consider it one of the best foods around. But is Asian food really spicy?

Spiciness in some Asian dishes is an integral part of a delicious culinary tradition. It may be ordinary in parts of Asia, but not all Asia, and while some Asian food is spicy, not all Asians eat spicy.

Traditional Asian cooking is healthy. It is typically low in cholesterol and saturated fat, a combination that many health professionals believe to protect against many chronic diseases. Real traditional Asian meals contain lots of high-fiber foods such as rice and other grains, breads, noodles, potatoes, fruits and vegetables including the sea vegetable seaweeds, as well as plant-based beverages comprising tea, coffee, chocolate, beer and wine.

Almost every Asian meal provides essential micronutrients from plant fibers believed to be rich in vitamins, carotenes, minerals and antioxidants that promotes general well-being. Asians are fond of herbs, spices, nuts and legumes. In fact most homes cultivate their own garden of these healthy greens. Because these substances are abundant everywhere, they are commonly incorporated into food in differing proportions. If consumed in sufficient amounts, the traditional Asian diet contains all of the essential nutrients needed by most adults.

Dairy foods such as milk and cheese are considered optional or low to moderate amounts in an Asian-style diet. Studies show that this general lack of dairy products in the diet may elevate concerns with regards to calcium requirement. This is why the use of calcium supplements is suggested. However, the plant-based and dairy-free diets of much of Asia associates low occurrences of osteoporosis and breast cancer than other countries. Soy is another healthy component that provides a main source of protein and iron. It contains isoflavones, known to be compounds that can stop the mutation of regular cells into cancer cells.

Cooking Asian food is simple and easy to prepare. It’s mostly only about whole grains, slightly cooked vegetables, and a little bit of everything else. In Asian cooking, most recipes employ fast cooking and the cooking part is the fastest and shortest part. Asians believe that the secret to a healthy diet is not just about taking time to make a dish sophisticated, it’s also about finding the right foods in the most natural way.

There are many misconceptions about why Asians are thin and healthy despite eating so much. I think it’s the culture and attitude towards exercise and diet in most Asian countries that leads to a lower obesity rate. I would say that in general, Asians live a healthier and more active lifestyle with more vegetables and less red meat in what they eat. So the secret is probably what Asians eat. Perhaps this eating style makes the Asian meal a healthy diet that helps improve general health and well being, making them feel better; stay fit and more active. It’s probably the reason why Asians remain thin and healthy even though they also eat so much!

Healthy eating basically begins with learning how to eat smart, and if you think eating delicious but well balanced meals can be the best way towards a healthy eating style, then the Asian diet may be ideal for you. This can even help make you achieve that great shape you’ve ever wanted. Maybe it’s time you get this edge and show the world that you’re worth a satisfying, healthy diet.