Pasta in its various forms has been a staple in the American diet for generations; we eat it in spaghetti, macaroni and lasagna to name but a few of our favorite dishes. The problem comes in when you are trying to eat a healthy low carb diet as pasta is definitely not on the list of foods you should be eating. For those who simply cannot live without their favorite pasta dish, the Japanese have created Shirataki noodles.
While Shirataki noodles are not exactly carbohydrate free, they contain a type of carb that only a small amount of is digested in the small intestines which means that they are ideal for anyone on a low carb diets. The original version of these noodles are made from a plant that grows in Asia called Amorphophallus Konjac and these noodles also contain a fiber called glucomannon which has been proven to be effective in both the control of cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Recent research in Thailand has found that a single gram of Shirataki noodles can significantly reduce the rate of sugar absorption in your blood when you eat a meal that is high in carbs; this means that any meal can be much healthier if you add in a dish featuring the original version of these noodles. You will also find that there are Tofu versions of these noodles on the market and while these may not have the same health benefits are equally carb free and tasty.
You will find Shirataki noodles in most health food stores in the refrigerated section. They come in plastic bag and are in a liquid solution to keep them ready to use. If you taste them on their own you will find that other than being a little slimy to the touch, they have little flavor. This works well as the noodles will take on the flavor of any dish they are used for. While they are intended predominantly for Asian dishes such as Pad Thai, you can enjoy them with any of your favorite Italian dishes or in a stir fry.
The one good thing about Shirataki noodles is that they come precooked; you can warm them in the pan with your favorite pasta sauce or add them to your favorite Asian dish in the last few minutes of cooking to heat them up. You will find that your family will thoroughly enjoy these super healthy noodles and never question what happened to the old semolina noodles that you used to use for your pasta dishes.
If you cannot find Shirataki noodles in your local grocery or health food store you can order them online at Lo Carb U. Here you will find a wonderful selection of low carb products aimed at helping you to create a healthier body. You will find the latest in low carb products and many of your old favorites at prices that are more than reasonable. All products are shipped the same day as long as you order by noon PST on Monday through Thursday.