Have you given soba noodles a try? This tasty Japanese dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also good for you. They might look like regular pasta, but they’re made from buckwheat, not whole-grain wheat.
Buckwheat is what makes soba noodles healthier than other types of pasta. The benefits mainly come from the quality of protein. Although a serving of soba noodles might not have more protein than a serving of whole-grain pasta, your body can use the protein from buckwheat more efficiently. Additionally, buckwheat is rich in lysine, an amino acid that’s typically low in other plant proteins like those in nuts, corn, and wheat. If you avoid animal products in your diet, adding soba noodles can be a great way to get better protein.
If you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, then you know to steer clear of wheat products. This means regular pasta and many other Japanese noodles, like Udon, are off the table. The great news is that buckwheat is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the soba noodle packaging to confirm they are made from 100% buckwheat, as some brands might add a bit of wheat flour.
Manganese is a crucial mineral your body needs. A diet rich in manganese can reduce the risks of arthritis, diabetes, and osteoporosis, and in women, it can lessen premenstrual symptoms. One cup of soba noodles packs about 0.4 milligrams of manganese, which is more than 18% of the recommended daily amount for both men and women.
Vitamin B1, also known as thiamin, plays several vital roles in your body. It helps synthesize ATP, the primary energy source, and supports the nervous and immune systems. A lack of B1 can increase the risk of heart failure and cataracts. A cup of soba noodles contains around 0.1 milligrams of vitamin B1, providing over 8% of the daily recommended amount for men and women.
Buckwheat is a prebiotic food, meaning it contains fibers that your body can’t digest but serve as food for beneficial bacteria like probiotics. These good bacteria, such as bifidobacteria, improve digestion, increase bowel movements, and reduce constipation. They can also help treat H. pylori infections and irritable bowel syndrome.
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that appear dark purple or blue, usually on the legs. They occur due to malfunctioning vein valves, causing blood flow to reverse. Risk factors include obesity and pregnancy. Even though varicose veins often don’t need medical treatment, changing your diet can help. Soba noodles contain high levels of rutin, a bioflavonoid that strengthens veins, reducing the appearance and discomfort of varicose veins. However, if the veins rupture or cause skin soreness, it’s important to see a doctor.
Ready to give buckwheat noodles a shot? Try out a great soba noodle recipe and enjoy the benefits!
