When you’re trying to shed some pounds, your first move is probably to cut certain food groups from your diet. One particularly carb-heavy food that is extra tempting and probably tops that list is pasta. But, thankfully, there are so many healthy alternatives to choose from at the store—whole-wheat, bean-based, gluten-free, rice noodles, and plenty more. But what type of pasta is least likely to lead to weight gain and optimal overall health? We asked the experts.
To learn more about the best type of pasta for weight loss, we spoke with Lisa Richards, a nutritionist and creator of the Candida Diet. She said that red lentil pasta is by far the best because it is high in dietary fiber and plant-based protein. Plus it’s gluten-free! Read on to learn more about the weight-loss-friendly red lentil pasta below!
Red Lentil Pasta Is The Best Pasta To Eat For Weight Loss
If you're trying to lose weight but you still want to enjoy a good bowl of pasta—look no further! Experts like Richards highly recommend red lentil pasta. Compared to regular pasta, the benefits of red lentil pasta are ground-breaking. Lentil itself is a metabolism-boosting superfood.
"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," Richards explains. So, red lentil pasta can help you stay satisfied for longer, assist in calorie control, and, ultimately, help lose substantial weight. And, if you're wondering how much fiber you need to eat every day for weight loss, we asked the experts!
Red lentil pasta is also a great source of plant-based protein. "Protein is known to increase feelings of fullness, as it takes longer to digest than carbohydrates. Including protein in your meals can help curb cravings and prevent overeating. Moreover, protein-rich foods can also support muscle maintenance and repair during weight loss, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism," she adds. Red lentil pasta contains 15 grams of protein and 3 g of fiber per serving. Plus, this weight-loss-friendly pasta contains 20% of your daily iron needs.
Like chickpea pasta, red lentil pasta is gluten-free. "Another advantage of red lentil pasta is its lower calorie and carbohydrate content compared to traditional wheat pasta. Red lentil pasta is often gluten-free and has a lower glycemic index, meaning it has a gentler impact on blood sugar levels. By reducing spikes in blood sugar, red lentil pasta can help control appetite and prevent excessive calorie intake," Richards explains.
She concludes: "Red lentil pasta is a nutrient-dense food, providing essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being, ensuring that your body functions optimally during the weight loss process."
The Bottom Line
While choosing the right pastas can certainly contribute to weight loss, it's essential to remember the importance of moderation. Even the healthiest pastas, like red lentil pasta, should be consumed in appropriate portions as part of a well-rounded diet. However, when it comes to the best choices for all of your healthy meals, experts like Richards agree that red lentil pasta can help promote weight loss.
