Last year, I visited Vietnam, a country celebrated for its healthy and nutritious cuisine. As a vegetarian, I wasn't expecting a variety of options, but I was pleasantly surprised by the range of dishes available, from rice paper rolls to vegetarian noodles. Low in fat, gluten-free, and packed with vitamins and minerals, Vietnamese food seemed perfect if you wanted to boost your immune system, aid weight loss, and enhance energy levels.But Is Vietnamese Food Really Healthy?Vietnamese cuisine stands out for its fresh, antioxidant-rich ingredients. The generous use of herbs and vegetables provides a healthy dose of Vitamins E and A, which help delay ageing, promote skin healing, and keep wrinkles at bay. Traditional Vietnamese soups, like the iconic pho, are nutrient-dense, providing essential vitamins and minerals that combat fatigue and support overall well-being. The long-simmering broths, rich in nutrients like Vitamin C, iron, and folate, make these dishes both hearty and health-boosting.For those concerned about blood sugar, Vietnamese food is an excellent choice. The cuisine is naturally gluten-free, relying on rice noodles, rice paper, and rice flour instead of wheat, helping to regulate blood sugar levels without the spikes caused by refined grains. Additionally, dishes are often flavoured with fresh herbs rather than heavy oils or dairy, making them light and low in calories.Vietnamese food is not only delicious but also beneficial for digestion, thanks to restorative herbs like mint and coriander. With its low sugar content, nutrient-dense ingredients, and lean proteins, Vietnamese cuisine is a great way to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying vibrant flavours.10 Healthiest Dishes In Vietnamese Cuisine1. Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls): Rice paper rolls filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, and lean proteins like shrimp or tofu, often served with a light peanut or hoisin sauce.2. Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup): A traditional broth-based soup made with rice noodles, herbs, and lean proteins like chicken or beef. It's low in fat and packed with nutrients.3. Bún Chay (Vegetarian Vermicelli Noodles): A refreshing bowl of rice vermicelli topped with fresh vegetables, tofu, and herbs, served with a light, tangy dressing.4. Cà Tím Nướng Mỡ Hành (Grilled Eggplant with Scallion Oil): Smoky grilled eggplant topped with scallion oil and fresh herbs, offering a rich source of fiber and antioxidants.5. Canh Chua (Vietnamese Sour Soup): A tangy and light broth-based soup made with tamarind, fish or tofu, and vegetables like pineapple, tomatoes, and okra.6. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Sizzling Crepes): Savory rice flour pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, or tofu, along with bean sprouts and herbs. They're light and usually served with lettuce wraps.7. Chả Cá Lã Vọng (Turmeric Fish with Dill): Marinated white fish cooked with turmeric, fresh dill, and herbs, offering a flavorful dish rich in omega-3s.8. Rau Muống Xào Tỏi (Stir-Fried Water Spinach with Garlic): A simple yet nutrient-dense dish made with stir-fried water spinach and garlic, high in fibre and vitamins.9. Nộm Đu Đủ (Green Papaya Salad): A crisp salad made with shredded green papaya, carrots, herbs, and a light dressing, offering a refreshing source of vitamins and fibre.10. Bún Bò Huế (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup): A hearty soup made with spicy, aromatic broth, lean beef, and plenty of herbs, providing a balanced meal with protein and low-fat content.