I love to sample different ethnic foods and to try exotic new restaurants. The next time you dine at an Asian restaurant, keep these hints in mind to enjoy a meal that is flavorful AND a boost to your health:

Chinese

• Beware of fat. Avoid foods that are deep-fried or described as crispy. Steer clear of higher-fat protein ingredients such as duck and some cuts of pork. Order steamed instead of fried rice.
• Ask about MSG (monosodium glutamate, which is often found in soy sauce and is frequently used as a flavor enhancer). Some people get headaches or nausea when they eat foods prepared with MSG; it also adds sodium to the food.
• Beware of high-sodium foods such as soy, oyster, black bean and hoisin sauces. One tablespoon of soy sauce contains 1,000 mg sodium; the health guideline today recommends no more than 2,500 mg PER DAY.
• Go for broke with vegetables. You'll typically find a wide variety of vegetables available, and don't be afraid to ask for extra vegetables with the foods you order.

Thai

According to Hope Warshaw, author of The Restaurant Companion, Thai food is a healthier choice than Chinese, because it uses less fat and larger proportions of vegetables, rice and noodles. Warshaw offers these tips for healthy dining Thai-style: