Advertisement
question

Can I eat pasta if I have diabetes?

Toby Smithson
Toby Smithson on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Nutrition & Dietetics
answer

Yes, you can eat pasta if you have diabetes. Pasta is a source of carbohydrate with 1/3 cup cooked pasta containing 15 grams of carbohydrate (1 carb choice). One third cup of pasta is not a lot of pasta therefore a couple suggestions are to: 1) use two or three of your carbohydrate servings for pasta (2/3 to 1 cup of pasta); and 2) add low carbohydrate vegetables such as cooked, broccoli, carrots, zucchini squash, and green beans to your pasta dish to increase the volume of food without adding more carbohydrate to your meal. Serve your pasta and steamed vegetables with a lean protein choice (baked fish, beef tenderloin, or boneless, skinless chicken breast.

RealAge
RealAge
answer

Think comforting bowls of pasta are off the menu because you have diabetes? Think again. Whole-grain pastas are a great source of B vitamins and fiber, and reduce inflammation in the blood vessels. However, this food does come with a couple warning flags. First, overcooking pasta raises its glycemic load (follow the package directions and pull the pasta off the heat when it's al dente). Second, beware of portion size. A good bet is to pair 1/2 to 1 cup of cooked pasta with a bevy of vegetables and a bit of lean protein and healthy fat for a dish that's easy on your blood sugar.

Continue Learning about Diabetes

7 Routine Tests to Get After a Diabetes Diagnosis
7 Routine Tests to Get After a Diabetes Diagnosis
A diabetes diagnosis is the beginning of a new road to travel, and the routine stops along the way include those for regular testing. You’ll receive ...
Read More
Type 2 Diabetes: How Often Should You Test Your Blood Sugar?
Type 2 Diabetes: How Often Should You Test Your Blood Sugar?
How can you tell if the goals of your diabetes management plan are working to hold your blood sugar in range? The easiest way is to monitor your blood...
Read More
The Best and Worst Foods for Diabetics
The Best and Worst Foods for Diabetics
If you have diabetes, planning meals may seem at times like a walking on a tight rope. You can eat this, but not that. You can have some of this, but ...
Read More
What time of day is best to take diabetes medication?
What time of day is best to take diabetic medication? The best time to take your diabetic medication...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.