Tag: Sodium in thai food

According to research, many popular Westernized Thai dishes are deep-fried, contain excess sugar and salt, and feature larger portions, which contrasts with the healthier, traditional Thai diet. So, what makes Thai food unhealthy, despite its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors?

According to a 2023 study published in MDPI, Thai adults consume an average of 3.6g of sodium per day, more than double the recommended amount, illustrating that the healthiness of the cuisine depends heavily on preparation. So, is Thai food good or bad for you? The answer is nuanced, blending incredible nutritional benefits with potential drawbacks depending on how it's cooked and consumed.

According to a 2025 survey by Thailand's Department of Health Service Support, a majority of Thai residents consume overly sweet, salty, and fatty foods, which contribute to rising chronic disease rates. While Thai cuisine is praised for its fresh herbs and spices, understanding what is unhealthy in Thai food is key to making informed dietary decisions, especially when dining out.