Per 100g Serving — Diabetes Nutrition Facts

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https://www.bluecircle.foundation/food/rigatoni

rigatoni

CARBS

75g

PROTEINS

13g

FATS

1.5g

Rigatoni, a type of pasta, is high in carbohydrates and not advisable for a low-carb diabetes management plan.

Quantity: 100g

Glycemic Index: 55

Glycemic Load: 39

Fiber: 3g

Key Nutrients: B vitamins, iron

Health Impact: High carbohydrate content can lead to significant blood sugar spikes and requires careful insulin management.

💉 Suggested Bolus

Pre-bolus 15-20 minutes before eating to match insulin action with the rise in blood glucose.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Veg)

Grilled Tofu – Provides a high-protein addition that can help with satiety and blood sugar stabilization.
Sautéed Spinach – Rich in iron and fiber, which aids in digestion and further stabilizes blood sugar levels.

🍽️ Best Paired With (Non Veg)

Grilled Chicken Breast – Lean protein source that helps to moderate blood sugar rises when paired with low-carb dishes.
Baked Salmon – High in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve insulin sensitivity and overall heart health.

🥄 Smart Substitutes

Zucchini Noodles – Significantly lower in carbohydrates, helping to maintain stable blood glucose levels.
Spaghetti Squash – Offers a pasta-like texture with a fraction of the carbs, aiding in better blood sugar control.
Shirataki Noodles – Very low in calories and carbs, ideal for managing diabetes and supporting weight loss.

⏱ Blood Sugar Timeline

0–15 min: Minimal impact as low-carb substitutes digest slower than traditional pasta.
30–60 min: Stable blood sugar due to the low glycemic load of the substitutes.
2–3 hr: Continued stable blood glucose levels, avoiding the typical spike seen with high-carb meals.

“Many in the diabetes community find that replacing high-carb foods like pasta with vegetable-based alternatives not only helps manage blood sugar levels but also enhances overall health and energy.”
— BCDF community member

🧠 Lowering Impact Tip

Combine with high-fiber vegetables and lean proteins to slow glucose absorption.

🤔 FAQs about rigatoni

Can I ever eat traditional pasta if I have diabetes?

It's best to limit traditional pasta and opt for low-carb alternatives, but occasional small portions may be manageable with careful monitoring of blood sugar levels.

How do I make zucchini noodles taste like regular pasta?

While they won't taste exactly like pasta, seasoning them well and pairing with flavorful sauces can enhance their appeal.

Have a question about rigatoni or any other topic related to diabetes?

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