For those looking to eat healthily in Chengdu, the city offers several specialized dining options and strategies that go beyond the typical oily and spicy Sichuan fare. A top recommendation for health-conscious diners is Qin Shan Zhai, a restaurant near Wuhou Temple where the menu is designed according to traditional Chinese medicine, featuring herbal hotpots, medicinal chicken soups, and dishes like seared mountain yams intended to invigorate the body. For plant-based and lighter meals, the area around Wenshu Monastery is a hub for high-quality vegetarian and vegan restaurants, including A Lotus on the Water, One Leaf One World, and the famous Wenshu Monastery vegetarian buffet. Modern healthy eating is also well-supported by establishments like Healthy Gourmet in Tongzilin, which specializes in fresh salads, low-carb options, and calorie-controlled meals, as well as Shu Shia, a light fruit tea chain focusing on wholesome ingredients like avocado and chia seeds. To maintain a healthy diet while exploring, travelers can prioritize non-spicy "clear soup" (qing tang) hotpots, steamed dishes like Steamed Chinese Cabbage in Supreme Soup, or "weight loss meals" (jianzhi can) available via delivery apps. For those with a kitchen, purchasing fresh, affordable agricultural products from local wet markets to cook at home is widely considered the healthiest and most cost-effective approach.