While you may have to watch out where you’re buying your produce in Vietnam, the cuisine itself is about as healthy you can get. The Huffington Post recently talked to the Vietnamese owners of Pho, a UK-based, family-run restaurant who provided 7 health benefits of eating Vietnamese food, as if we needed more convincing.

1) It keeps you looking young

Vietnamese soups and salad are packed with antioxidants in addition to vitamins E and A that slow the aging process. Vitamin E aids in fighting free radicals while vitamin A helps heal scars and fend off wrinkles. 

2) It enhances your immune system and keeps you perky

Vietnamese foods are rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamins C, B1, B6, B3, folate, biotin, zinc, copper, magnesium and potassium – all of which have been proven to help boost energy levels. 

3) It will regulate your blood sugar

Usually gluten-free, no need to worry about steep spikes and drops in blood sugar.   

4) It improves digestion

Many Vietnamese dishes are served with generous portions of fresh herbs which aid in relief from indigestion, nausea and headaches.

5) It gives you healthy hair

Iron, protein and vitamin C all increase hair growth and health. 

6) It’s low in sugar

Vietnamese spring rolls and soups are low in sugar (less than 5g per serving), which some experts warn is as harmful as alcohol and tobacco. 

7) It can help you lose weight

Vietnamese food is low is calories and fat since it’s flavored with herbs and spices rather than oil and dairy and is full of fresh fruits and veggies. A bowl of pho has between 300 and 600 calories, and less than 3g of fat per serving. 

[Huffington Post // Photos via Khanh Hmoong and Matthew Kenwrick]