According to a recent study published in journal Nutrition and Diabetes, the researchers examined eating habits of more than 23,000 Italians. The scientists from Instituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S. discovered that healthy body mass index can be achieved by eating pasta in reasonable quantities. People who consume pasta as per their individual needs have smaller waists and better waist-hip ratio. But what does "according to individual needs" mean? However, just because pasta is good for your health, it doesn't mean you should eat it recklessly.
The study participants were given small picture booklet so that they could determine the portion size that they consume on a regular basis. The largest serving size was considered to be 86 grams. According to Italians, three ounces of pasta or 86 grams is already a large serving. Eating more than that may lead to possibility of being overweight or obese, and not lower BMI that Italians enjoy.
Pasta is a crucial part of Mediterranean diet, including meals rich in fruits, fish, olive oil, nuts, vegetables and whole grains. Dr. Guntle Kunhle, associate professor of health and nutrition at University of Reading, England, noted that study participants also followed the Mediterranean diet. The principle of Mediterranean diet is reasonable consumption and eating only from the food elements. For instance, if you eat a moderate serving of green beans with pesto pasta, it would still be considered as a healthy meal.
According to the experts, Mediterranean diet has health benefits of a lifetime for people. In a separate report, Mediterranean diet helps protect brain cells and also prevent several diseases such as diabetes, breast cancer, heart disease, skin cancer, dementia etc. This diet is also known to prolong life and is considered more effective than counting calories. Nutritionists say that the only time a pasta becomes unhealthy is when it is consumed unreasonably.