1 serving (56 grams) contains 208 calories, 7.3 grams of protein, 0.8 grams of fat, and 41.8 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
415.5 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.7 g | 2% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g | 1% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 6.7 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 83.6 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.6 g | 12% | |
| Sugars | 3.0 g | ||
| protein | 14.6 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 23.5 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 1.5 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 141.1 mg | 3% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Elbow pasta
Elbow pasta, also known as macaroni, is a type of short, curved pasta that originated in Italy and is now widely popular in Western cuisine. Traditionally made from durum wheat semolina, it is known for its versatility and is commonly used in dishes like macaroni and cheese, pasta salads, and soups. Elbow pasta provides a substantial source of carbohydrates, which serve as energy for the body. A 1-cup (about 140 grams cooked) serving typically contains around 200 calories, 7 grams of protein, and less than 1 gram of fat. It also provides small amounts of iron and B vitamins like thiamin and folate when enriched. Whole grain varieties deliver higher fiber content, supporting digestive health.
Health Benefits
- Provides energy through complex carbohydrates, helping maintain blood sugar levels.
- Enriched elbow pasta is a source of B vitamins such as folate, crucial for DNA synthesis and red blood cell production.
- Whole grain elbow pasta contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes heart health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store dry elbow pasta in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain quality. Cooked pasta can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3-5 days.
Common Questions About Elbow pasta Nutrition
Is elbow pasta high in protein?
Elbow pasta is not particularly high in protein compared to other foods. A typical cup of cooked elbow pasta (about 140 grams) provides around 7-8 grams of protein. For those looking to increase protein intake, pairing pasta with protein-rich foods like beans, lentils, or lean meats can be helpful.
Can I eat elbow pasta on a keto diet?
Elbow pasta is not suitable for a keto diet as it is high in carbohydrates. One cup of cooked elbow pasta contains roughly 40-45 grams of carbohydrates, which is significantly higher than what is typically allowed on a ketogenic diet. For keto-friendly alternatives, you can opt for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
What are the health benefits or concerns of eating elbow pasta?
Elbow pasta offers a good source of energy due to its carbohydrate content and typically provides small amounts of iron and B vitamins like thiamine. However, traditional white pasta is low in fiber and may cause blood sugar spikes. Choosing whole-grain elbow pasta increases fiber content, supports digestion, and offers additional nutrients.
What is the recommended serving size for elbow pasta?
The recommended serving size for cooked elbow pasta is about 1 cup, or roughly 140 grams. This portion contains approximately 200-220 calories. For balanced meals, combine it with plenty of vegetables, a protein source, and a healthy fat.
How does elbow pasta compare to whole-grain and other pasta types?
Elbow pasta made from refined flour has fewer nutrients and less fiber compared to whole-grain pasta. Whole-grain versions contain about 6 grams of fiber per cup, while refined versions have 2 grams. Additionally, gluten-free options, like lentil or chickpea pasta, offer higher protein and fiber levels for those with dietary restrictions.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
