Zucchini noodles, often called zoodles, are spaghetti-like noodles made from raw zucchini. They have a similar look to linguine or soba noodles. Zoodles fit perfectly into a health-conscious diet. They're very low in calories as well as carbs, but they provide the body with many essential nutrients. Zoodles contain protein, fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, manganese, riboflavin, potassium, folate, Vitamin K and Vitamin A. Benefits of zoodles include the ability to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and strong, without weighing it down with excess carbs or calories.
Benefits of Zoodles
1. Low in Calories
Benefits of zoodles include the fact that they are low in calories. Zoodles can be eaten in place of spaghetti or other pastas that are high in calories in carbs, which may be especially beneficial for those who are trying to lose weight. Five cups of zoodles equals out to about the same number of calories as one cup of regular wheat-based noodles, making the switch a no-brainer for those who are counting calories. (1)
2. Low in Carbs
Benefits of zoodles include the fact that they are low in carbohydrates. Summer squash, including green zucchini and yellow squash, is also lower in natural sugar and starch than other grains, as well as some root vegetables. Benefits of zoodles also include the ability to help normalize blood sugar levels. The noodles score low on the glycemic index, suggesting they may be a beneficial diet addition for those who are diabetic or prediabetic.
3. Good Source of Nutrients
Benefits of zoodles include the ability to provide the body with a healthy dose of essential vitamins, minerals and disease-fighting antioxidants. Zoodles are rich in Vitamin A, which helps to enhance wound healing, produce collagen and protect vision. They also contain Vitamin C, which works to strengthen the immune system to prevent illness and infection. The B vitamins in noodles play an important role in maintaining high energy levels and a healthy nervous system. Thanks to the potassium they contain, benefits of zoodles also include the ability to maintain regular heartbeat rhythms, normal blood pressure levels and a healthy digestive system. (2)
4. Help Increase Vegetable Intake
Benefits of zoodles include the ability to increase your vegetable intake. No-grain noodles, like those made from zucchini, butternut squash, beets and carrots, can provide the body with essential nutrients without weighing it down from excess carbohydrates. Benefits of zoodles, along with other nutrient dense high-fiber foods, include the ability promote healthy digestion as well as a healthy heart. (3)
