Can you eat pasta on a diet? Everything you need to know

Can you eat pasta on a diet? Everything you need to know

Pasta is one of the most popular foods in many countries, including Ukraine. However, if you are trying to watch your weight or follow a certain diet, the question may arise: is it possible to eat pasta without harming your figure and health? In this article, we will consider whether pasta can be included in the diet on diets, as well as what are the features of its consumption.

Pasta and calories

One of the main factors that usually affects the choice of products on a diet is their calorie content. Usually, pasta has from 350 to 370 calories per 100 grams of product in dry form. However, this value may vary depending on the type of pasta and the method of its preparation. For example, pasta made from wholemeal flour contains fewer calories and more fiber, which makes it more beneficial for the body.

It is important to note that the calorie content of pasta increases after cooking, when it absorbs water. However, even cooked pasta is still high in calories, so if you're trying to control your weight, you should watch your portion size.

All-purpose pasta

Traditional pasta made with all-purpose flour is not the best choice for those looking to lose weight or improve their health. It's high in simple carbohydrates that are quickly digested by the body, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar and increased appetite. It's also often low in fiber, which is important for proper digestion.

However, when consumed in moderation, all-purpose pasta can be part of a healthy diet when balanced with vegetables, protein, or other fiber-rich foods.

Alternative: Whole-wheat pasta

If you want to enjoy pasta but are looking for a healthier alternative, look for pasta made with whole-wheat flour. It contains more fiber, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels, improves digestion, and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Whole-wheat pasta also contains more vitamins and minerals, which are good for your overall health.

This type of pasta can be a good choice for those on a diet, as its glycemic index is much lower than that of traditional pasta, which helps avoid sharp fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

How to properly combine pasta?

One of the key points when it comes to pasta is its combination with other foods. In order for pasta to not become "empty calories", it is necessary to add healthy ingredients to it. For example, a great option is to combine pasta with vegetables, lean meat or fish, and olive oil or vegetable fats.

If you want to prepare a diet dish, you can use low-calorie pasta by adding sugar-free tomato sauce, vegetables or herbs to it. This will allow you to maintain the rich taste of the dish without adding extra calories.

Pasta and different types of diets

In many popular diets, such as ketogenic or low-carb, pasta is often banned due to its high carbohydrate content. However, for most other diets, such as the Mediterranean or balanced diet, pasta can be included in moderate quantities. In such cases, it is important to observe proportions and choose healthier pasta options, such as whole grain.

It is also important to remember that pasta should not be the main dish on your plate. It is better to serve it as a side dish or add it to salads, where vegetables and proteins play the main role.

Pasta is a delicious and versatile food that can be included in the diet even when dieting, if you choose the right types of pasta and combine them with healthy ingredients. It is important to remember that moderate consumption of pasta, especially whole grain options, not only will not harm the figure, but can also be part of a balanced diet. Choosing pasta and combining it with other foods is the key to a healthy diet.