Is Whole Wheat Pasta Really Healthier Than White Pasta?
If you've ever wondered whether or not whole wheat pasta is really healthier than regular white pasta, look no further. While most people tend to prefer white or refined pasta, whole wheat pasta is actually better for your overall health (via Greatist). That's because white and whole wheat pasta are processed differently. Whole wheat pasta is made from wheat flour that contains all three parts of the wheat or whole grain: the bran, the germ, and the endosperm.
During the refining process, however, the whole grain is stripped of its two outermost layers: the bran and the germ. Since it's the bran and the germ that give the whole grain most of its nutrients, white pasta is less nutritious than whole wheat pasta, which maintains all parts of the whole grain. Because of this, whole wheat pasta is rich in fiber, protein, antioxidants, vitamin E, healthy fats, and all major B vitamins.
Health benefits of whole wheat pasta
That's why whole wheat pasta is linked to a number of important health benefits. For instance, eating whole wheat pasta on a regular basis can help support heart health (via WebMD). Research has shown that eating whole grains every day can help reduce your risk of heart disease by 20 to 30%. It can also help lower your cholesterol levels.
Eating whole wheat pasta can also improve digestion. That's because whole grains are a great source of fiber, which can help keep you regular, relieve constipation, and reduce diarrhea. Fiber can also help you manage your weight and may even promote weight loss. Fiber keeps you feeling full longer, which can help you reduce your overall caloric intake. That's why, in addition to a well-balanced diet, eating fiber-rich pasta can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Furthermore, eating whole wheat pasta may also reduce your risk of certain types of cancer. While further research is still needed, some studies have found that eating large amounts of whole grains can help protect your gastrointestinal tract from cancer by reducing oxidative stress and preventing cell damage.