Experts weigh in on pho, its downsides, and ways to make it even healthier.
It’s deeply comforting and filling.
We consulted the experts.
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What Is Pho?
Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup.
In Vietnam, it’s usually eaten for breakfast.
It’s topped with a medley of herbs, bean sprouts, hot chiles, and lime.
“Pho is a very nutritious dish,” says nutritionist Rachael Hartley.
What Are the Health Benefits of Pho?
There are tons of health benefits of pho.
Depending on the ingredients you opt to include in your pho, the health benefits will vary.
But it’s best to choose a lean protein.
Chicken is leaner than beef."
Coriander, for example, is traditionally considered to be a medicinal herb.
It boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also anti-asthmatic, anti-diabetic, anti-diuretic, and anti-hypertensive.
Anise is another aromatic plant that is considered to be medicinal.
Anise has a range of pharmacological effects because it boasts antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Another study suggests that consuming ginger before exercising can reduce muscle pain after due to its anti-inflammatory nature.
Let’s go through why it may be best to eat pho in moderation.
“Fresh vegetables added to pho are a nutritious addition,” says Syn.
“Vegetables are low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and filling fiber.”
Chaudhary, G. et al.
“Coriander (Coriandrum sativum): A Common Indian Traditional Spice and Ayurvedic Remedy.
“International Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Pharmacy.
Black CD, Herring MP, Hurley DJ, O’Connor PJ.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces muscle pain sparked by eccentric exercise.
2010;11:894903. doi: 10.1016/j.jpain.2009.12.013.
FDA.Sodium in your diet.
Accessed October 30, 2022.
“How much sodium should I eat per day?
“American Heart Association.
