Some people think that nutritionally speaking, Chinese food is not very nutritious. Certain experts go as far as to claim that if you eat Chinese food regularly, you will gain weight.

But is that really the case? No, it is not, according to Lorraine Clissold, author of Why the Chinese Don’t Count Calories.

Chinese food nutrition She points to recent research showing that the Chinese consume 30 percent more calories than people in other countries and yet weigh 20 percent less. How could this be? They choose nutrient-packed fare over foods full of sugar and fat. Here, a few more Chinese eating secrets:

Worship veggies In China, vegetables are as prized as meat. Order more veggie dishes, and ask to have your meat served on vegetables instead of rice or noodles.

Use the “rule of five” Pack your plate with five tastes – sweet, sour, pungent, salty, and bitter – not just one. The Chinese believe that helps control weight.

Think yin and yang Yin foods (which are often steamed) provide a cooling effect. Yang foods (often grilled) warm you. The balance is thought to prevent weight gain.

Drink (hot) tea Enjoy it at body temperature (warm but not superhot) to aid in fat digestion. But avoid iced tea; it can lead to obesity and lethargy. [source: Health]