Great news for noodle lovers: you no longer have to punish yourself for enjoying a plate of pasta. Amidst the craze of carb-counting diets, pasta is widely seen as an indulgence that leads to rapid weight gain. Because traditional pasta is mainly carbohydrates, people view the the food as empty calories, but carbs are actually the preferred energy source for the human body and can provide numerous nutritional benefits.
Thus, not all noodles need to be to be a naughty indulgence. In fact, certain kinds of pasta are fiber-rich, making them a better choice for those looking to be or stay lean. High-fiber pasta promotes feelings of fullness by providing a slower release of energy.
SheFinds checked in with three healthcare professionals to determine the holy trinity of healthy noodles. Read on to learn more. 1.
Red Lentil Pasta Red lentil pasta is fiber-rich, a great source of iron, and meets nearly all the daily requirements for folate. Lisa Richards , a nutritionist and creator of the Candida Diet tells SheFinds: “Red lentil pasta is high in dietary fiber. Fiber-rich foods help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating and snacking between meals.
” 2. Kelp Noodles Derived from nutrient-dense seaweed, kelp noodles are low carb, low cal, naturally gluten-free, and contain a healthy dose of calcium, magnesium, and iron. Kelp noodles are also a great source of iodine, a mineral that supports healthy thyroid function, which helps regulate meta.