Can you eat pasta for dinner: nutritionist's opinion

Many people claim that eating pasta or other sources of complex carbohydrates for dinner is a bad habit for digestion, sleep, and body weight.

However, according to Italian nutritionist Francesca Evangelisti, they can be eaten at this time, but in moderation, ilgiornaledelcibo.it reports.

Carbohydrates should be consumed with every meal

First of all, pasta, like other cereals and derivative products (rice and bread), contains a large amount of complex carbohydrates, which are the main source of energy.

Taking this into account, it is easy to understand that every meal must contain carbohydrates, which provide energy and prevent the body from using other nutrients (for example, protein).

To do this, the nutritionist suggests following the golden rule of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Even at dinner, pasta should be considered a source of carbohydrates that the body needs for energy.

It is important to watch the proportions and seasonings

Of course, even during lunch or dinner, it is important to pay attention to proportions: pasta can make up about a quarter of the dish, but the rest should consist of proteins and vegetables. It is also necessary to ensure that the portion corresponds to some individual parameters, such as age, physical characteristics, and the level of physical activity performed.

In addition, during dinner, food should be less seasoned to promote digestion before bedtime. It is better to give preference to pasta with a little olive oil and parmesan, with vegetables or tomato puree.

However, if only carbohydrates were eaten for lunch, then it is recommended to eat healthy sources of protein for dinner (eggs, low-fat cheeses, legumes, lean meat, fish). That is when eating a large plate of pasta for lunch, it is advisable to avoid eating it in the evening, and vice versa.