Nutrition
Good nutrition is the foundation of good health. Learn how to make healthy food choices that honor Khmer culinary traditions while supporting your wellbeing.
Traditional Khmer Foods & Health
Traditional Khmer cuisine is rich in vegetables, fresh herbs, and lean proteins. Foods like amok (fish curry), samlor korko (vegetable soup), and fresh spring rolls offer excellent nutritional value when prepared with attention to sodium and fat content. Incorporating more of these traditional dishes — rather than processed or fast foods — can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases common in our community. Cooking at home using traditional recipes is one of the most powerful steps you can take for your family's long-term health.
Healthy Eating Tips
Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits. Choose whole grains like brown rice. Limit salty condiments such as prahok and fish sauce. Drink water instead of sugary beverages. Cook with less oil. Small, consistent changes — like swapping white rice for a mix of white and brown, or steaming instead of frying — add up significantly over time. Eating together as a family also supports healthier portion sizes and more mindful eating.
Reading Food Labels
Check serving sizes, calories, sodium, sugar, and saturated fat on packaged food labels. Aim for foods with fewer ingredients and less than 600mg sodium per serving. When shopping at Asian grocery stores, look for lower-sodium versions of staples like soy sauce and fish sauce — many brands now offer them. If a label lists sugar as one of the first three ingredients, consider choosing an alternative.