The Skinny
When considering different types of pasta, many people initially gravitate to their preferences between ravioli and spaghetti or even penne noodles compared to, say, bowtie noodles. Shapes are fine but what’s too often overlooked is what makes up these pastas, especially for individuals looking for special diets. It turns there are many types of pasta ingredients, all with their own unique nutritional benefits and tastes. WellWell has put together a list to consider.
The Slate
Standard refined pasta, being the most popular type consumed, not only comes in different shapes and sizes but also packs a variety of essential nutrients. One cup of cooked, refined pasta holds roughly eight grams of protein, 220 calories and 10 percent of iron. When compared to whole wheat, refined pasta does have more carbs. This can scare off some as high-carb diets have been associated with increased risk for diabetes, high blood sugar and heart disease.
A common alternative to regular pasta, whole wheat pasta is viewed as a healthier option and for good reason. Like many other types of noodle bases, whole wheat is “carbohydrate-rich” with 37 grams of carbs. Essential carbs are usually preferred when considering a quality source of energy for the muscles and promoting a healthy nervous system. Further benefiting the nervous system, whole wheat pasta as it’s rich in B vitamins and other minerals such as copper and magnesium. Whole wheat’s also rich in fiber, providing a key role in promoting digestive health and lowering cholesterol levels.
Not only does chickpea pasta serve as a great source of fiber, but it also has an equal amount of protein with about eight grams of each in a ½ cup serving. Additionally, depending on the brand, this plant-based offering contains slightly fewer calories, double the fiber and close to double the protein, all while being a more natural gluten-free option than regular wheat-based pasta. More essential benefits include being considered a lower-glycemic choice, which helps regulate blood sugar and being very filling, which ultimately makes it a great addition to any weight loss plan.
What sounds healthier than veggies? Although it is not the most popular option, veggie pasta holds its own with the great number of vitamins it contains. Along with being another great source of fiber, veggie pasta contains Vitamin A, C, K and E, which all serve their own beneficial purposes and cannot be found in standard wheat noodles. Veggie noodles are also low on carb count playing a vital role in keeping track of glycemic load.
Drawing similarities to whole wheat pasta, brown rice pasta is another source of magnesium along with other nutrients such as selenium and manganese. Brown rice pasta also contains antioxidants that can aid in preventing diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Additionally, eating this unique type of noodle guarantees people at least eight percent of the recommend iron intake. Oh, and it’s low in carbs, like many of the healthy alternatives.
Eyes Up
What’s your favorite pasta? Tell us at info@wellwellusa.com.
