Macaroni or Noodles with Cheese and Tomato: A Moderate Glycemic Option

Macaroni or noodles with cheese and tomato is a comfort food loved by many. But how does this dish fare on the glycemic index scale? Let’s dive into the nutritional profile and glycemic impact of this popular pasta dish.

Glycemic Index and Load

With a glycemic index (GI) of 40, macaroni or noodles with cheese and tomato falls into the low glycemic category. Foods with a GI below 55 are considered low glycemic foods, which means they cause a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar levels compared to high GI foods.

The glycemic load (GL) is 7.04 for a 100g serving, which is relatively low. The glycemic load takes into account both the quality (GI) and quantity of carbohydrates in a food, providing a more comprehensive measure of how a food affects blood glucose levels.

Nutritional Breakdown

A 100g serving of macaroni or noodles with cheese and tomato contains:

• Calories: 148
• Protein: 3.94g
• Fat: 6.53g
• Carbohydrates: 18.7g
• Fiber: 1.1g
• Sugar: 3.35g
• Net Carbs: 17.6g

Why It’s a Moderate Glycemic Choice

The combination of pasta with cheese and tomato creates a dish with a balanced nutritional profile. The protein and fat from cheese help slow down digestion, while the fiber in pasta and tomato contributes to a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream.

The addition of tomato not only enhances flavor but also adds nutritional value. Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to various health benefits.

Who Should Consider This Food?

This dish can be suitable for:

• People with diabetes looking for lower GI pasta options
• Individuals managing their blood sugar levels
• Those seeking a more moderate carbohydrate meal
• Athletes looking for a pre-event meal that provides sustained energy

Tips for Lowering the Glycemic Impact Further

• Use whole grain pasta to increase the fiber content
• Add more vegetables to your dish
• Include lean protein sources like chicken or tuna
• Consider al dente cooking, as firmer pasta tends to have a lower GI
• Portion control is key – stick to recommended serving sizes

Macaroni or noodles with cheese and tomato can be a satisfying addition to a balanced diet when consumed in appropriate portions. Its moderate glycemic impact makes it a better choice than many other pasta dishes, especially those with cream-based sauces or those made with refined white flour pasta.

Bottom Line

With its moderate glycemic index and load, macaroni or noodles with cheese and tomato can be included in a balanced diet, even for those watching their blood sugar levels. As with any food, portion control and overall dietary balance remain important factors in maintaining healthy blood glucose levels.