If you're trying to lose weight and eat healthier, you may think that Mexican restaurants are on the "no fly" list. While it's true that most Mexican dishes are full of calories or smothered in cheese, you don't have to steer completely clear of your favorites to get healthy. By making the right selections, it's possible to enjoy Mexican food without ruining your diet.

Chicken Fajitas

Choose a main dish that includes veggies and stay away from those that are doused in sour cream or are deep-fried. Chicken fajitas are full of fiber and protein, and are a relatively healthy option. One serving has right around 360 calories, 13 grams of fat, 35 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber. Fill your fajita shells with veggies, and use salsa in place of sour cream and stop at two tortillas.

Taco Salad

Taco salads are another good choice as long as they're ordered without the deep-fried shell. Grilled chicken taco salad without the shell has about 300 calories, 22 grams protein and 6 grams fiber. Top your taco salad with low-fat dressing or salsa, or get a side salad and a cup of soup with a broth base.

The a la Carte Menu

The a la carte menu has some of a Mexican restaurant's healthiest choices. Portion sizes are frequently too large, and choosing from a la carte options will allow you to order less food. Order a soft-shell chicken taco and a side of black beans for a boost of protein, folate and antioxidants. Moreover, black beans are less fatty than refried beans, which are usually prepared using lard.

Make Easy Changes for a Healthier Meal

When visiting a Mexican restaurant (or any other, for that matter), carefully read the menu and don't be shy about asking for small modifications. Swap the flour tortillas for those made of corn flour; they contain less fat. Instead of a dollop of sour cream, top your dish with fresh avocado or a spoon or two of guacamole; both are rich in unsaturated fat, folate and fiber. Choose brown rice over white if it's available, and ask that your meal be prepared "dry" to cut the fat content. Add extra lime juice, salsa, cilantro and jalapeno to increase the food's flavor without adding fat and calories.

Mexican restaurant menus are often a minefield of unhealthy choices, but there are ways to enjoy the dishes you love without sacrificing good health. By ordering healthier options from the regular and a la carte menus, and by asking the kitchen to make minor tweaks to its preparation methods, you can get the flavor you want without all the fat and calories. For more information on Mexican Restaurants, hop over to this site.