Eliza Savage, MS, RD, CDN walks us through why noodles are a staple to any healthy diet, and why they should definitely not be a "feared" food group!
Now serving noodles! Yes, you heard correctly. Now is not the time to pass on carbs, noodles are here to stay. Noodles have been enjoyed around the globe for thousands of years and are a staple in many cultures. Since the start of the low-carb craze in the early 2000s, diet culture has shunned noodles of all kinds. While noodles are typically made from highly refined white flour which is high in carbohydrates and low in nutrients, there are many high-quality, nutrient-dense options that taste great and are incredibly satisfying. One example is rice noodles, which are the base of Splendid Spoon’s new Noodle Bowls.
Before we dive into the deliciousness of Splendid Spoon’s new Noodle Bowls, let’s do a bit of nutrition education. As a registered dietitian, I seek to provide evidence-backed nutrition information to empower people to make healthy choices. Choosing top-quality, delicious carbs is at the top of the list!
What are carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients (along with fats and protein) and are a key source of energy for the body. Carbohydrates are made up of naturally occurring sugars, starches, and fibers that are found in food. These sugar molecules link together in different formations to create a variety of starches and fiber. In the body, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, or sugar that provides energy for all of the body’s functions.
Carbohydrates are found in foods like bread, whole grains, and rice, as well as other foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and dairy.
Why are they an important part of a healthy, balanced diet?
Carbohydrates are essential to a healthy, balanced diet and comprise the body’s primary energy source. In short, carbohydrates are necessary for the body to function properly. They help to fuel all organs, including the brain, kidneys, and heart, as well as muscles and the central nervous system.
A healthy balanced diet incorporates wholesome foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes—all of which contain carbohydrates. It’s important to remember that it’s not healthy to eliminate an entire macronutrient, especially one that includes a wide variety of nutritious foods. I would agree that limiting intake of processed carbohydrates such as sugary cereals, candy, and cookies is wise; however, many diets are quick to eliminate all carbohydrates including healthful options such as whole grains, legumes and starchier vegetables like potatoes.
Why noodles?
Splendid Spoon’s new bowls make enjoying noodles easy, quick, and nutritious. Typical noodles made at home or ordered from a restaurant are saturated with butter, salt, or sugary sauces. Alternatively, Splendid Spoon’s plant-based noodles are rich in flavor, texture, and nutrition. The convenient, ready-to-eat noodle bowls combine rice noodles with fresh and inventive herbs and spices and tons of fiber-rich veggies to create satisfying and nutritious meals that are ready in minutes. The nostalgic noodles provide a sense of warmth and comfort comparable to your favorite takeout or homemade pasta dish, and simultaneously keep your taste buds happy and nutrition goals on track.
In simplest terms, the bowls are good and good for you. Ditch the idea that carbs are the enemy, and embrace the grounding, nutritious, and deliciousness of Splendid Spoon’s Noodles.
Ready to try them? Add noodles to your meal plan today!
Questions? Send us an email at [email protected]