Health
Rice, Quinoa, or Pasta… Which carbohydrates are best for your health?
Carbohydrates like rice, pasta, quinoa, and couscous form essential dishes on the dining table for their delicious taste and nutritional benefits. However, in order to make the healthiest choices, it is important, according to nutrition experts, to understand their nutritional values and potential drawbacks.
In this regard, a nutritionist told the “Jerusalem Post” that carbohydrates with the highest nutritional value are:
- Quinoa: Rich in iron, protein, and high-quality carbohydrates, quinoa is considered a highly nutritious choice.
- Black Wheat Products: Aid in lowering blood sugar levels, provide a high percentage of dietary fiber, contribute to satiety, and offer protection against serious diseases such as cancer.
- Lentil Flour Pasta: Although classified as pasta, it provides a significant amount of plant-based protein, iron, zinc, and magnesium. It also stands out for its ability to lower blood sugar levels.
As for less healthy carbohydrates, they include:
- Regular Pasta: Usually made from refined white flour, it offers minimal or negligible nutritional value and may contribute to health problems.
- White Rice: Despite widespread consumption, it lacks significant nutritional benefits, primarily providing empty calories.
- Couscous: While a common choice, it is important to choose couscous made from whole grains as it offers superior nutritional value compared to the refined counterpart.
In conclusion, nutrition experts recommend prioritizing whole grains when choosing carbohydrate additions for your meals, emphasizing the need to limit or avoid regular pasta and white rice due to their limited nutritional benefits.