Indulging in our favorite junk food has always been a habit hard to break. From chips to sodas, junk food has always been our instant gratification, satisfying our cravings in the most convenient way possible. If you’re a fan of Filipino cuisine, then you may be familiar with a popular snack that has been a staple of street food: lechon manok. This delicious and crispy snack has gained a reputation as a Filipino chichirya or junk food. Let’s dive into the world of lechon manok and explore its nutritional value and why it’s categorized as a junk food.
What is Lechon Manok?
Lechon Manok is a popular Filipino street food that consists of roasted chicken with crispy skin. It originated from a traditional method of cooking a whole pig known as lechon baboy. The dish rapidly evolved to include a smaller and more accessible version that was easier to prepare. It quickly became popular among street vendors, making it a staple and a go-to snack for many Filipinos.
Nutritional value of Lechon Manok
Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also contains essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. However, when it comes to the nutritional value of lechon manok, it is a different story. The nutritional value of lechon manok is significantly different from when you boil or grill the chicken.
Lechon manok is marinated in various spices, including sugar, salt, and soy sauce, which can raise the sodium and sugar content of the dish. The chicken is then roasted in its fat to make the skin crispy, which increases the calorie content. According to research, an 8 oz. serving of lechon manok contains about 700-800 calories, 40-50 grams of fat, and 1,000 milligrams of sodium. It also contains minimal fiber and other essential nutrients, making it an unhealthy snack.
Why is lechon manok classified as Junk Food?
Junk food is usually high in calories, sugar, salt, and fat while being low in essential nutrients. Lechon manok can be classified as junk food because of its high calorie, fat, sugar, and sodium content while containing minimal fiber and other essential nutrients. It’s also highly addictive, making many people crave and consume it regularly. These characteristics make it a typical snack food that can lead to health issues such as weight gain, heart disease, and high blood pressure if consumed in excess.
Benefits of moderation
Moderation is key when it comes to consuming lechon manok or any other junk food. While eating in excess can lead to various health issues, consuming in moderation can offer some benefits. For example, lechon manok contains some essential nutrients like protein, vitamin B6, and niacin that are beneficial to the body. However, it’s essential to balance your intake with other nutrient-dense foods and a healthy diet to maintain good health.
Conclusion
Lechon manok is a delicious snack that has become a staple for many Filipinos, especially as a go-to junk food. It’s essential to understand the nutritional value of the food you consume and its effects on your health. Junk food can lead to health issues if consumed in excess, while moderation can offer some benefits. If you’re a fan of lechon manok, indulge in moderation and balance your diet with other nutrient-dense foods.
In conclusion, while lechon manok is a delicious snack that many Filipinos enjoy, consuming it in excess can harm your health. Moderation and balance are essential when it comes to any junk food, including lechon manok. It’s important to prioritize nutrient-dense foods to maintain good health, rather than relying on junk food for instant gratification.