penne
CARBS
75g
PROTEINS
13g
FATS
1.5g
Quantity: 100g
Glycemic Index: 45-50
Glycemic Load: 35
Fiber: 3g
Key Nutrients: B vitamins, iron
Health Impact: Penne can cause significant blood sugar spikes due to its high carbohydrate content and moderate glycemic index, necessitating careful insulin management.
💉 Suggested Bolus
Pre-bolusing or using a dual-wave bolus may help manage the glucose rise after eating.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)
- Grilled Tofu – High in protein and low in carbs, helping to balance the meal and slow digestion for better glucose control.
- Sautéed Spinach – Rich in iron and fiber, adds bulk and nutrients to the meal without significant carbohydrates.
🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)
- Grilled Chicken Breast – Provides a high-quality protein source that helps moderate blood sugar levels during digestion.
- Baked Salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, supporting overall health and glycemic control.
🥄 Smart Substitutes
- Shirataki Noodles – These noodles are made from konjac yam, containing mostly fiber and almost no digestible carbs, helping to minimize blood sugar spikes.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – Zucchini is low in carbs and can be spiralized to mimic the shape of noodles, offering a nutrient-dense alternative that can help stabilize blood glucose levels.
- Spaghetti Squash – When cooked, it shreds into threads like spaghetti but with significantly fewer carbohydrates, aiding in better blood sugar management.
⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline
- 0–15 min: Minimal impact as low-carb substitutes do not rapidly increase blood glucose.
- 30–60 min: Stable blood glucose levels due to the slow digestion of fiber and minimal digestible carbs.
- 2–3 hr: Continued stable blood glucose, preventing the typical spike and crash seen with high-carb meals.
— BCDF community member
🧠 Lowering Impact Tip
Combine with high-fiber vegetables and protein sources to slow digestion and glucose absorption.
🤔 FAQs about penne
Can I ever eat traditional pasta if I am managing diabetes with a low-carb diet?
It's best to limit traditional pasta due to its high carb content. Opt for low-carb substitutes like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for better blood sugar control.
How do I prepare zucchini noodles to replace pasta?
Use a spiralizer to cut zucchini into noodle shapes, then sauté or boil briefly to achieve a pasta-like texture without the carbs.
Have a question about penne or any other topic related to diabetes?
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