Foods rich in carbohydrates typically get removed from many diets in weight loss attempts. This new study suggests that pasta may be a valid component of dieting routines, which conducted systematic review and meta analysis of randomised controlled trials with adults.
Glycemic index indicates how quickly carbohydrates are broken down into simple sugars within the body. Food stuffs with low glycemic index are typically known to be more beneficial especially for individuals trying to control blood sugars and those trying to lose weight. Whole grains and other fiber rich foods typically have low glycemic index making them better choices for individuals with diabetes rather than refined flour and sugars. Pasta has been found by this study to have low glycemic index making it a better food choice in weight watchers.
Researchers were evaluating whether pasta rich in carbohydrates could help weight lose and maintain it by gathering data from 32 different trial which included 2448 participants, and found that individuals who consumed pasta as part of a low carbohydrate diet had significant weight loss and weight maintenance.
Data was collected and analysed from the studies to investigate pasta consumption effects on attempts of weight loss. According to the researchers no weight gain or harm was seen with pasta consumption in this study, to the contrary weight loss was noted. It was noted that quantity of pasta consumed may be conductive to weight loss which has yet been determined.
One third of the participants consumed pasta on an average of 3.3 servings @ half cup in size per week. The team noted moderation is key, concluding that pasta in moderation in context of low glycemic index dietary patterns does not adversely affect adiposity and can help to decrease body weight and BMI. More research is necessary to show how low glycemic index foods can lead to weight loss and increased maintenance of healthy BMI. A healthier eating option could be a Mediterranean diets which includes consumption of pasta.
