Score one for Pasta: Italian delicacy doesn't make you fat, say researchers!

Zee Media Bureau/Udita Madan

London: 'Pasta' is a word that would send fitness freaks and those on a weight loss trip running an extra mile on the treadmill.

For years, Pasta has been considered a food that encourages weight gain and obesity, mainly because it is rich in carbohydrates. But for some, it is also extremely hard to resist.

The Italian staple has been considered a strict no-no when it comes to healthy eating habits, however, it looks like this might change after a study found out that Pasta is not fattening after all.

We can already hear a big 'Yes!' from foodies around the world, because it's true! The study carried out by Italian scientists refutes the age-old theory of Pasta leading to weight gain and says that, pasta consumption is, instead, associated with a lower body mass index, or BMI.

Researchers at Istituto Neurologico Mediterraneo Neuromed I.R.C.C.S. mentioned that it predates the modern obesity and diabetes epidemics.

They further went on to explain the reason behind it being called fattening, saying that the extra ingredients added to the Italian delicacy, like excessive oil-based sauces, which are high in sugar and salt content are the real culprits.

"Our data show that enjoying pasta according to individuals' needs contributes to a healthy body mass index, lower waist circumference and better waist-hip ratio," said lead author George Pounis from IRCCS Neuromed Institute in Italy.

Giving an example of the Mediterranean diet, lead researcher Licia Iacoviello from Neuromed Institute said, “Mediterranean diet, consumed in moderation and respecting the variety of all its elements (pasta in the first place), is good for your health.”

Pasta consumption is associated with better weight management in part because it often occurs as part of a healthy Mediterranean diet, said the paper published in the journal Nutrition and Diabetes.

Bon appétit!

(With IANS inputs)