AI reveals which tacos are the most harmful

Tacos are one of the pillars of the nation's cuisine. However, among their wide variety of culinary possibilities, there are a few that are best avoided too often for health reasons.

Contrary to what many people think, the problem isn't the tortillas themselves, but rather the saturated fats, calories, sodium, and refined carbohydrates. According to Grok, X's Artificial Intelligence, the tacos we should avoid frequently are the following:

Tacos dorados or flautas

Why they're less healthy : They're fried in oil, which significantly increases the trans fat and calorie content. For example, a beef or chicken taco dorado can have 200-300 calories per unit, with a high fat content.

Health Impact: Regular consumption of fried foods can raise LDL cholesterol, increase the risk of heart disease, and contribute to weight gain.

Carnitas or pork rind tacos

Why they're less healthy : Carnitas are cooked in lard, which makes them high in saturated fat. A carnitas taco can contain up to 15-20g of fat per serving. Chicharrón, being fried pork skin, is even more caloric and fatty.

Health Impact : They can contribute to cardiovascular problems and obesity if consumed frequently, especially if combined with creamy sauces or cheese.

Tacos al pastor (with excess fat)

Why they're less healthy : Although delicious, tacos al pastor often include high-fat cuts of pork, and the pineapple, while healthy, doesn't make up for the excess calories (approximately 150–200 kcal per taco). Additionally, the sauces and the pan-fried cooking method (sometimes with added fat) raise the calorie content.

Health Impact : Excessive consumption may increase the risk of hypertension and body fat accumulation.

Tacos of head or viscera (tongue, tripe, etc.)

Why they're less healthy : These tacos are often high in cholesterol and saturated fat . For example, fried tripe (tripitas) is especially high in calories and fat . One serving can have up to 300 mg of cholesterol, close to the recommended daily limit.

Health Impact : Frequent consumption can raise blood cholesterol and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Tacos with too much cheese or cream

Why they're less healthy : Tacos like steak or chicken with large amounts of melted cheese (Oaxaca, Manchego, etc.) or sour cream add saturated fat and sodium. A taco with extra cheese can add 100-150 extra calories.

Health Impact : Contributes to weight gain, hypertension and problems related to excess fatty dairy.

Flour tacos with processed ingredients

Why they're less healthy : Flour tortillas have more calories and refined carbohydrates than corn tortillas (approximately 150 kcal per large tortilla versus 50-70 kcal for a corn tortilla). When combined with processed meats like chorizo or sausage, the sodium and additive content increases.

Health impact : Increased risk of type 2 diabetes and digestive problems due to lack of fiber.

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