Shirataki noodles are long, white noodles that consist of a type of starch known as glucomannan. The body does not digest this starch, making shirataki noodles very low in calories and carbohydrates.
Shirataki noodles are a popular part of Japanese cuisine. However, because of their nutritional properties and versatility, they have gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly among those who follow low carbohydrate diets.
In this article, we will explore what shirataki noodles are in more detail, as well as their potential health benefits, how to cook them, and how to include them in meals.
Shirataki noodles consist of water and starch from the roots of the konjac plant, which is a type of yam. Other names for these noodles include “konjac noodles” or “miracle noodles.”
Manufacturers make shirataki noodles by extracting starch from konjac roots. They then use this starch to create a block, known as “konnyaku.”
People can eat konnyaku on its own as a meat substitute, or use it to create different shapes. Konjac starch is gelatinous and clings to itself, which makes it ideal for forming into noodles.
Shirataki noodles are unique because of the starch they contain: glucomannan. In the digestive system, glucomannan acts like a dietary fiber, which means the body does not break it down to use as energy.
Shirataki noodles are made from a substance called glucomannan that comes from the konjac root. Glucomannan is a soluble fiber that absorbs a lot of water. Noodles made from glucomannan flour are actually about 3% fiber and 97% water, so it’s easy to see why they are low in calories.
Use as a food substitute
People may find shirataki noodles both useful and beneficial for their health if they have a food allergy, food intolerance, or a digestive condition that limits their diet.
This is because shirataki noodles are free from substances that can cause symptoms in some people. For example, they do not contain:
Some brands of shirataki noodle are also low FODMAP.
This could help people with conditions that require these dietary restrictions to eat a more varied diet while also avoiding symptoms. Shirataki noodles can act as a replacement for popular foods such as pasta, wheat noodles, and egg noodles.
Reaching a moderate weight
Shirataki noodles may help people reach a moderate weight by providing a low calorie, low carbohydrate replacement for other starchy foods.
Additionally, there is some evidence that glucomannan may help to promote weight loss. A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis in Obesity Medicine found an association between glucomannan supplementation and weight loss in people with overweight and obesity.
Glucomannan is also a type of soluble fiber, which is generally beneficial for weight loss as it can increase feelings of fullness.
What Are Shirataki Noodles And Are They Healthy?
FAQ
Are skinny noodles healthy?
Are Konjac Noodles safe to eat?
What is skinny pasta noodles made of?
Is konjac flour safe to eat?
What is skinny pasta?
Skinny is a delicious pasta alternative that’s only nine calories per 100 grams (3.52 oz), thanks to its main ingredient, Konjac – an all-natural plant that contains fiber. Skinny Pasta is free from GMOs‚ allergens and additives so your family can enjoy their favorite dishes without sacrificing taste or flavor
Are it’s Skinny noodles keto friendly?
Keto-friendly noodles from It’s Skinny. Only 9 calories, gluten free, vegan, and paleo friendly. Enjoy all your favorite dishes without carbs. Order Online.
What do Miracle noodles taste like?
They don’t taste much like anything on their own, but will take on the flavor of whatever sauce you use, much like regular pasta. These miracle noodles are made from glucomannan fiber, which is the gelatinous fiber found in the root of the konjac yam, but some other varieties are made from tofu.
What do shirataki noodles look like?
The noodles are thin, translucent and have a slightly gelatinous texture. The word “shirataki” means “white waterfall” in Japanese, which is emblematic of their appearance. Shirataki noodles can come in a variety of shapes and forms.