Article: Eat Well to Be Well

Proof that this blog is, in fact, relevant: New York Times' Article, Eat Well to Be Well.

Article: The Asian Diet

An interesting article about the Asian diet with an explanation of stressed food groups and nutrients.

Beverage: O-Lyte Electrolyte Beverage Powder

In the spirit of my last week in Chiang Mai--consisting of hospitals, thermometers, and way too many blood tests--I have decided to impart some of my Dengue Fever wisdom upon the Stay Fresh community. We all know that Thailand. Is. Hot. Too hot, at times. In order to keep that hydrated homeostasis intact, I have adapted by of course, drinking lots of water.

However, when water simply won't cut it (perhaps if you too have been struck with a tropical illness), I recommend O-Lyte Electrolyte Beverage Powder packets. These packets, sold at any local pharmacy (which are everywhere) come in Orange Flavour, and you simply pour them into a glass of water and drink up! A cross-cultural alternative to Gatorade (available, but expensive by Thai standards), and an easy, healthy option if you're on the go--these packets can be tucked away into a purse or wallet.

Snack: Meiji Yogurt

One food that I have come to appreciate in Thailand more than I ever did at home is yogurt. Perhaps this is because my diet lacks much of the dairy that I was able to get at home; finding fresh dairy like cheese in Chiang Mai is possible, but it will cost you (plus it's just not the same).

Whatever the reason may be, yogurt is a great option for those who are looking for a high-fit, low-fat snack. According to the American Dietetic Association, yogurt is made with "friendly" bacteria; these bacteria are thought to aid with digestion as well as boost immunity. And, as most dairy does, yogurt provides a lot of calcium which can be hard to get here. I tried a variety of yogurts in my search for the "one," and the following are my results. Luckily yogurt is a food that can be easily located, especially because it is located in every 7-11 (and 7-11 is everywhere).

1) Dutchie Original

The first yogurt on the roster is made by Dutchie brand. The original flavor has 150 calories per container with 4 grams of fat. This yogurt is absolutely delicious, but, at 150 calories, perhaps not the best Fit Farang option.

2) Dutchie Original 0% Fat

After this, I moved on to the 0% Fat Dutchie Original. However, I am always hesitant to choose the "fat-free" options over the original; oftentimes, fat-free means that food is just packed with more chemicals while still containing the original amount of sugar. 80 calories per container.

3) Meiji Original

However, the winner of this challenge remains Meiji Original flavor. At 70 calories, this plain yogurt has no sugar added, making it the most natural choice. Though it is unsweetened (which I personally don't mind), it can be complemented with fruit to make up for the lack of sugar if you are craving something sweet.