Pasta is a staple food in America and throughout many other parts of the world. Despite its popularity, there are many people who cannot or prefer not to eat pasta. Fortunately, pasta is only one of many grain choices, and it's entirely possible to follow a healthy and balanced diet without it.
Reasons
There are several reasons why you migh adopt a pasta-free diet. Pasta is high in carbohydrates, which some people prefer to limit as part of specific diet plans. Pasta also contains gluten, which people with celiac disease cannot eat. Other people prefer not to eat refined grain products such as pasta, and some simply dislike the texture or taste of the noodles.
Benefits
Pasta is a processed grain product. That means that even if it's made with whole wheat or another whole grain as a primary ingredient, people who are concerned with eating mostly whole and natural foods may not find it as healthy as other potential choices. Giving up pasta and eating different whole grains can help to reduce the risks of heart disease, constipation, high cholesterol and nutrient deficiencies, according to MyPyramid.gov. MayoClinic.com also points out that whole-grain pasta alternatives are high in fiber and can help people stay full for long periods.
Substitutions
Pasta is part of the grain group in the food pyramid at MyPyramid.gov. Many whole grains contain the same nutrients, so eating other grains in place of pasta can fulfill its void in a diet. Brown rice, wild rice, barley, bulgur, millet, oats, rye and corn are all alternate choice with significant nutritional benefits. In particular, rice and polenta serve as fitting replacements for pasta in many dishes, such as pasta Bolognese or pesto pasta with grilled chicken and vegetables.
Gluten-Free Pasta
People who avoid pasta because it contains gluten may be able to find gluten-free noodles on the market at health food stores, large grocery stores, food co-ops or specialty stores. MayoClinic.com suggests that people with celiac disease seek out wheat- and gluten-free pastas that are instead made from buckwheat, rice, amaranth, corn or quinoa. Gluten-free noodles have a similar texture and taste to traditional pasta noodles and can be used in any pasta recipe.
Considerations
Provided that you replace pasta in your diet with other whole-grain choices, there should be no negative effects of following a pasta-free eating plan. However, if you suspect you have a nutrient deficiency or notice potential health issues after any change in your regular diet, see a physician to talk over your concerns.
