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I don’t know about you, but I know that tortilla chips are a pantry staple here in my home.
Whether we’re using them as a solid base for a heaping plate of nachos, breaking them up on top of a Tex-Mex casserole, or just snacking on some chips and guac — trust me, tortilla chips see plenty of action around here.
I’m not going to lie, I ate a giant helping of chips and salsa for lunch the other day. Which led me to ask myself, “Is this a healthy lunch option?”
I know that salsa is pretty healthy. After all, the flavor-packed Mexican staple is full of all the good stuff like vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and lycopene. Plus, it’s low in calories, and usually doesn’t have added salts, sugars, or fats.
But what about the tortilla chips? Did I just crash through all the health benefits of salsa with all those salty, crunchy chips?
As it turns out, some tortilla chips are more healthy than others. There are varying amounts of calories per serving, but the real culprit to watch for is all that sneaky sodium. It’s hiding in a lot of foods you buy at the grocery store, and it contributes to high blood pressure.
So, to answer my own question, YES! Chips and salsa can be healthy. However, just like with anything else, you really have to read labels.
To find healthier tortilla chip options, you have to pay careful attention to calories and sodium. The lower these two are, the healthier they rate.
Here are some of the healthier options available on store shelves in most major grocery stores.
365 Everyday Value Organic White Corn Tortilla Chips
Xochitl Organic White Corn Tortilla Chips
Garden of Eatin’ Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips
Mission Tortilla Rounds
Late July Organic Sea Salt Restaurant Style
Of course, for every healthy option, there are many more that aren’t quite as healthy. Here are some brands that have higher sodium and calories (and even one with 2 g of sugar!).
Tostitos Original Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
Trader Joe’s Restaurant Style White Corn Tortilla Chips
Siete Sea Salt Tortilla Chips Made With Avocado Oil