Noodles are a common food in daily life. Due to regional differences, the dietary customs and traditional cultures vary from place to place. In the south, rice is the main staple food, while in the north, steamed buns are the main staple. However, no matter where you are, the habit of eating noodles exists.
Some people think that frequent consumption of noodles is not good for health, as it can lead to increased physical burden. Which statement should be believed?
What are the nutritional components of noodles?
Noodles are a common type of food and a good source of nutrition. They are generally made from wheat flour, which contains rich carbohydrates, proteins, as well as trace elements such as zinc, iron, sodium that the body needs, and also contains fat.
Eating noodles in moderation can provide the body with necessary nutrients and energy, alleviate hunger. Noodles are not high-fat foods and are generally suitable for consumption by most people.
What are the effects of frequent noodle consumption on the body?
1. Monotonous Nutrition
Although noodles can be prepared in various ways, the nutrition value is still too monotonous. Long-term consumption without vegetables, eggs, or meat as supplements can lead to malnutrition, lower immunity, and make individuals more susceptible to diseases.
2. Affects Digestive Health
Many believe that noodles are easy to digest and are beneficial for those with digestive discomfort or the elderly. However, noodles with high starch content can impose a burden on the digestive system. Excessive intake may hinder normal digestion and absorption, leading to the development of gastrointestinal diseases, negatively impacting personal health.
3. Causes Malnutrition
The main nutritional component of noodles is starch, with small amounts of vitamins. Starch can provide carbohydrates for the body but cannot fulfill the body’s requirements for fats, vitamins, proteins necessary for a balanced diet. Therefore, long-term consumption of noodles can lead to malnutrition.
4. Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Noodles are high in carbohydrates, leading to rapid blood sugar spikes after consumption. Excessive and prolonged consumption of noodles can strain the pancreas, increasing the risk of metabolic diseases like diabetes. Blood sugar fluctuations may also trigger obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues.
Doctor: Remember these 5 points when eating noodles
1. Prefer Dry Noodles
When choosing noodles, it’s better to opt for dry noodles. Freshly made noodles might spoil if not stored properly, leading to mold growth and potential harmful bacteria. Moldy noodles may contain aflatoxins, a carcinogen, increasing cancer risk.
2. Avoid Very Hot Noodles
The method of consuming noodles varies, but it’s common to eat noodles hot. Eating extremely hot noodles may damage the gastrointestinal tract and mucosa. It is advisable to wait until the food cools to a suitable temperature before consumption.
3. Noodles are Best for Lunch
Noodles contain ample carbohydrates providing sufficient energy. Boiled noodles absorb a lot of water, increasing their volume substantially. They can stimulate brain activity as the brain and nervous system require carbohydrates. A bowl of well-balanced noodles for lunch is an ideal choice.
4. Avoid Scorching the Pot when Boiling Noodles
Some may find plain noodle soup bland and prefer to stir-fry the noodles to enhance the taste. However, high-temperature frying can destroy many nutrients and increase fat content. Excessive consumption of such noodles may raise cholesterol levels, not beneficial for maintaining cardiovascular health, especially for middle-aged and elderly people.
5. Remember to Drink the Soup with Noodles
After finishing the noodles, it’s recommended to drink the soup. Starch from the noodles disperses into the soup during cooking and aids better digestion and absorption. Drinking the soup post-meal can facilitate digestion.
Avoid Buying These 3 Types of Packaged Noodles! They’re Nutrient-Poor and a Waste of Money, Share with Your Family
1. Noodles with Excessive Additives
Some noodle products in the market contain excessive food additives like preservatives, bleaching agents, colorants, and flavor enhancers. While these additives enhance the appearance, excessive intake can be harmful to health. It’s advisable to read product labels and opt for products with simpler ingredient lists.
2. Noodles with Trans Fats
Noodles containing trans fats are usually processed from hydrogenated vegetable oils to improve texture and shelf life. Prolonged consumption of such noodles can lead to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other health issues.
3. Fruit and Vegetable Noodles
Fruit and vegetable noodles, increasingly popular in supermarkets, are sometimes marketed as a nutritious option. However, these noodles are often made from dried vegetables ground into powder, resulting in nutrient loss. The added nutrients are minimal, making these noodles more of a gimmick than a healthy choice.
