Sarah EatonWhether you’re looking to trim your waist line or cater to a gluten intolerance, soba noodles are a great alternative to traditional pasta. These noodles are made out of buckwheat, which, despite the name, is not wheat or even related to wheat. And the health benefits of soba noodles are many, including supporting digestive function as well as promoting a healthy heart. Learn more about soba noodles health benefits by reading the list below.
Here are 7 health benefits of soba noodles:
1. Contains Prebiotics
Soba noodles health benefits start with digestive health. This is due to the fact that they contain prebiotics, which fuel the beneficial bacteria, or probiotics, in your stomach. Research dictates that a higher intake of prebiotic foods can help increase this good bacteria. (1)
2. Discourage Varicose Veins
Health benefits of soba noodles also include prevention of varicose veins. This is because these noodles are a good source of rutin, which is a bioflavonoid that can help support vein walls, helping them work more effectively. As such, soba or buckwheat noodles are an excellent choice for avoiding the development of varicose veins. (2)
3. Macrobiotic Food
Also on the list of soba noodles health benefits is the macronutrient content. These noodles are a macrobiotic food, meaning they are part of a group of foods that have different energetic qualities as well as a laundry list of vitamins and nutrients. It’s a theory that stems from Asia and states that you balance yin and yang by eating a mostly vegetarian, low-fat diet with a balance of various macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates and fats).
If you’d like to follow a macrobiotic path, soba noodles make the cut, so consider adding them to your diet.
4. Rich in Protein
It can be a challenge to get enough protein from a noodle. However, part of the health benefits of soba noodles if their protein content. In fact, just two ounces of these noodles have more than eight grams of protein. This is good news for vegans and vegetarians who are seeking more protein sources.
5. Decrease Heart Disease and Stroke Risk
Soba noodles health benefits extend to your heart, as well. One study found that buckwheat can lower total serum cholesterol as well as LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, researchers linked buckwheat intake with a higher ratio of HDL, or good cholesterol, to overall cholesterol. (3)
6. A Gluten-Free Noodle
Those who have celiac disease may have a difficult time finding a noodle they can consume. However, soba noodles health benefits include being free of gluten. Furthermore, they are rich in nutrients, such as amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to any diet. However, be sure you read the label. Not all of these noodles are made from 100 percent buckwheat flour.
7. Better Choice For Blood Sugar
Health benefits of soba noodles include helping maintain blood sugar. While they are high in carbohydrates, they are also high in fiber and protein, which can help maintain normal blood sugar levels.