Type 2 diabetes refers to a common condition that causes your blood sugar levels to become too high, raising the spectre of serious complications.
While diabetes won’t stop you from enjoying your food, knowing some simple hacks and swaps can help you choose healthier options, according to Diabetes UK.
Carbohydrates found in the likes of pasta spell bad news for your blood sugar levels because they cause a spike in your glucose which can be tricky to manage.
However, that doesn’t mean you have to kiss pasta goodbye once and for all.
Fortunately, an endocrine specialist, known on TikTok as The Voice of Diabetes, outlined the “best” pasta options for diabetics.
1.Wholegrain wheat pasta
This pasta type is made out of whole wheat flour which packs more fibre and nutrients, compared to refined white flour.
Wholegrain foods tend to be better for managing blood glucose levels because they tend to have a lower glycaemic index (GI). This means they don’t affect your blood sugar levels as quickly as refined carbohydrates.
However, Diabetes UK still recommends being mindful of portion sizes as whole grains are still carbohydrates.
2.Legume-based pasta
This type of pasta is rich in fibre and protein which slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose in your blood.
4.Quinoa pasta
The diabetes expert shared that quinoa is a complete protein and contains a good amount of fibre which can benefit your blood sugar.
In fact, a study published in the journal Nutrients, found that the popular grain mitigates blood sugar spikes after meals.
5.Spaghetti squash or courgette noodles
While they are not traditional pasta, these vegetable options are “very good” and low in carbohydrates, The Voice of Diabetes explained.
5.Shirataki noodles
The last option the expert recommended are “miracle” noodles, known as Shirataki. “They are extremely low in carbohydrates and calories,” she added.