How to Enjoy Healthier Noodles

By Brandi Goodman 

Eat Your Noodles Day arrives on March 11th. Most pasta options are unhealthy and should not be consumed on a regular basis. On special occasions such as these, however, a bowl of noodles to celebrate is not the worst thing you can eat. You can also boost the nutrition factor of your meal by using a few helpful tips.

Make, Don't Buy

Though it may be cheap and convenient to grab a box of noodles from the store, these options are far less healthy than you would imagine. Most contain lots of sodium and carbohydrates. To avoid this, make your own noodles from scratch. A whole wheat version is more nutritious than one that uses white flour. If you do want to buy, just be sure you're finding a whole wheat pasta that appears light brown in color instead of a white or slightly yellowed hue. 

Add Protein

Lots of protein should be included in the diet. Protein is necessary for repairing tissues within the body and keeping it healthy. Good sources of protein to add to noodles include lean meats, such as turkey or chicken. Cook some boneless, skinless breasts and dice them into your meal. 

Include Vegetables

Vegetables make a great addition to a pasta dish. They add nutrition, flavor, and other textures without too many calories. Peas, carrots, baby corn, broccoli, peppers, and squash are all excellent options. You'll get hefty doses of vitamins and minerals with these included. Choose this over a dish that only uses pasta and sauce, such as mac and cheese, for a more worthwhile meal that will fill satisfy your hunger. 

Use Light Sauce

Part of the reason why many pasta dishes are so full of calories is due to the sauce used. Many are created using butter or cream. Making a light sauce at home is a better alternative that helps to cut the calories and fat down. Using some spices and olive oil is a great way to add flavor to the dish without adding unhealthy components. If you do want a milk-based sauce, make sure you're choosing a low-fat option instead of a full-fat alternative. 

Skip the Sides

Enjoying one bowl of pasta isn't such a problem as long as you're eating a healthy version. However, many people still add fattening breads or another dish to the side. Skip the sides and eat the noodles alone. If you do want to eat something along with it, then choose a piece of fruit instead of a bread stick. 

Healthy noodles are possible as long as you know how to make them. Enjoy this more nutritious version on Eat Your Noodles Day or any other occasion. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Roseville, Calif.