Good news for pasta eaters! New research has revealed that children and adults who include pasta in their regular diet have a higher quality diet and a better nutrient intake compared to adults and kids who don’t eat pasta.
What’s more, among women pasta consumption was associated with a lower waist circumference, body weight and body mass index (BMI). No association was seen in children and men.
The study examined the relationship between pasta consumption, shortfall nutrients and diet quality in comparison to non-pasta consumption in the U.S. population (children and adults).
Pasta consumption was defined as all dry domestic and imported pasta/noodle varieties made with only wheat and no egg.
From the analysis, the researchers identified a number of key positive nutritional dietary patterns associated with including pasta as part of the diet:
· Better overall diet quality
· Greater intake of key shortfall nutrients. In adults these were folate, iron, magnesium and fibre; in children these were folate, iron, magnesium, fibre and vitamin E
Pasta is a convenient, nutritious, easy-to-prepare meal and usually pleases picky eaters. It also serves as a delivery system for fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish and beans and lentils.
Note: This study was funded by the National Pasta Association in Washington, DC, USA.
Source: Frontiers in Nutrition, August 7, 2020
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.