The term “T-diet” or “vitamin T” refers to all foods that start with this letter of the alphabet: tamales, tostadas, tacos, tlacoyos, tlayudas, tortas, to give just a few examples.

The reputation of the regime

Nutritionally, these dishes have acquired a very bad reputation over time. Different health professionals have referred to them as high-calorie foods that are harmful to health if consumed frequently and in large quantities, causing overweight, obesity, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes, among other things.

However, it all depends on how they are prepared, as many of these dishes use ingredients that are high in protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

The ingredients

The main ingredient of this diet, which is also the one on which the diet in Mexico is based, is corn, which is essential for many preparations, from the most complex to the simplest. From this corn, the dough is obtained, which serves as the base for several Mexican recipes, including tortillas that have many advantages, because in addition to giving us energy, it contains vitamins A, C, D, E, B1 and B2 and some minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and calcium.

The corn base is often served with a preparation, which can be as simple or complex as desired. This is where we can make healthier choices than others. It is best to choose lean proteins that have been simmered with little fat and include vegetables in their preparation. Vegetarian options such as pumpkin blossom, huitlacoche, beans or cooked nopales are also a great idea, as they provide us with fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Let’s move on to the typical sides, these vary depending on the dish, but many of them have in common cream, cheese, lettuce and sauce. Cream cheese is a great source of protein with a low fat content, while lettuce provides us with very few calories and a lot of fiber, so we can add as much as we want.

Our suggestions

Then… the T diet, is it for you? Here’s what we offer you on LilietGordo.com

Healthy suggestions:

–Vegan Nopales Mixiote

–Vegan hibiscus flower tinga

–Black beans that with epazote

–Chicken Pastor

–Nopal in brine

For your “Cheat days”:

–Pork carnitas confit in bacon

–Pork Cochinita

–Chicharrón (Pork rind)

–Churros

PS The “T-diet” is very real in Mexico, because it is often what is available throughout the country. Of course, the T diet is to be taken with lightness and humor.