Written By: Tania Tarafdar | Published : October 13, 2017 11:33 AM IST
I personally hate the fact that pasta has such a bad reputation especially when it comes to weight loss since it is high in carbohydrates. So now, I end up picking packets of whole wheat spaghetti because it is probably way better for my waistline. But the unfortunate thing is I am used to perfectly chewy and tender traditional pasta and I completely dislike the taste of whole wheat pasta. It is grainy and not at all like the pasta I like. I often wondered if it was worth the switch and I got in touch with nutritionist Urvashi Sawhney to clear my doubts. She gave me the nutritional comparison of whole wheat and regular pasta.
Calorie count
When it comes to the calorie count, cup of regular pasta contains around 200 calories and cup of whole wheat pasta contains around 180 calories. So there is a difference of just 20 calories.
Fat content
A half cup of whole wheat pasta contains 1.5g fat and regular pasta contains around 1g. So there is a negligible difference here too.
Carbohydrate content
A half cup of regular pasta contains around 41g carbohydrates and a half cup of whole wheat pasta contains around 35g carbohydrates.
Fibre content
Whole wheat pasta is a little higher in fibre than regular pasta with 6g of fibre in half cup as compared to the only 2g in regular pasta. Unlike regular pasta, whole wheat pasta contains all the layers of the wheat kernel the bran, germ and the endosperm which gives it an edge when it comes to micronutrients and fibre.
Protein content
They are both the same when it comes to a protein with about 7g in half cup of both the types of pasta. If you are a carb lover, try these tricks to reduce calories in pasta.
Bottomline If you are really lacking fibre in your diet then whole wheat pasta would be a better choice. But if traditional pasta is where your heart is and you have been avoiding it to reduce some kilos go for it. Combine your pasta with tons of vegetables and beans so that you feel less guilty. Just be aware of the portion sizes. Here's how to order a healthy meal at an Italian restaurant.
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