Surely you have heard of the rave. Tofu Shiratake Noodles seems like the next best thing to miracle food. But you are skeptical. They can’t all be good. They claim to be low carb, low fat, high fiber, and a safe way to lose some weight. But are they really that good for you? We take a look at answering the most frequently asked questions about these tofu noodles.
Where do these noodles come from?
These noodles are a stable staple in the diet of the Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese populations. It is produced in countries where the main ingredient, the voodoo lily, is easily grown.
Asians eat weird things, what are these noodles made of?
These noodles are composed almost entirely of flour derived from the drying and grinding of the root of the voodoo lily. Also known as devil’s tongue or Konjac plant. The other ingredients include lime water and tofu (soybean curd).
How often could you eat them?
As often as you like, I’d say. The voodoo lily has been touted for years as famine food. The Chinese use the roots of this plant in the same way that we use potatoes. It is also often used as cereal. Therefore, it is a safe food to consume on a daily basis.
Do they really help with weight loss?
They Yes. Devil’s tongue has earned a reputation as a famine food. This means that a little goes a long way. Shirataki Tofu noodles are made from the combination of this root and tofu, resulting in a product rich in natural dietary fiber known as Glucomannan.
Because Glucomannan’ dietary fiber absorbs the water that fills the stomach and intestinal tract, it tricks the body into thinking the digestive system is full or satiated. Thus preventing binge eating or craving for more food.
Therefore, you will eat less and feel full. Fiber will also cleanse your digestive tract allowing you to better absorb nutrients from your food while burning stored carbohydrates (also known as fat).
Can diabetics eat them?
The consumption of Tofu Shirataki noodles is contraindicated for type 1 diabetics, as it can cause hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar levels) in people who are already taking medication or who have an overactive pancreas.
Consumption of Shirataki noodles has been found to be beneficial for people suffering from type 2 diabetes. As they are known to control the absorption of carbohydrates or sugar in the body. Therefore, it helps with sustained sugar levels and prevents sugar spikes. Due to this property, Shirataki noodles are indicated as a low glycemic index food.
Are there health risks?
Not really. Shirataki noodles are safe for everyone to eat. However, because they limit the absorption of carbohydrates in the diet, they are not suitable for type 1 diabetics.
Because these noodles contain a dietary fiber known as glucomannan, there are mixed opinions about their suitability as a food for children under five years of age or for pregnant or lactating women. Since these individuals require both carbohydrates to ensure proper growth and development. Due to the limitation of carbohydrate absorption, the consumption of Shirataki noodles is contraindicated for these people. Based solely on your dietary needs.
Glucomannan dietary fiber has been shown to be useful in the treatment of patients suffering from high cholesterol or constipation, as it has been shown to substantially improve these conditions. Therefore, consumption of Tofu Shirataki noodles is recommended if you suffer from any of these conditions.
Is there any nutritional value in these noodles, especially if they are low carb?
Yes, these noodles contain lipids, sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, phosphorous, copper, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, pantothenate, niacin, fatty acids, acid folic. And by adding golden flaxseed to your food, you will add Omega 3 and 6 acids, allowing for a super healthy meal.
So even if you are a bit skeptical about them. Shirataki Tofu noodles are good for you, not only if you plan to lose some weight. It is the ideal food to include in a limited vegetarian diet. And it will benefit you more than a diet shake. It will add body to soups and meals while keeping carbs low. They are a low carb alternative to pasta and could replace pasta in most recipes. So go ahead and give it a try.
