Pasta, bread, and other carbs get an unfairly negative reputation in the health community. The truth is that carbohydrates are an essential part of a healthy diet and provide your body with essential energy to survive.

And what's one of the most delicious carb-friendly cuisines in the world? Italian food, of course!

So in case you need another reason to visit an Italian restaurant or order takeout, here are 5 reasons why eating Italian food can be healthy.

1. Italian Food Is Focused on Fresh Ingredients

Real Italian cooking, like the cooking of Italian grandmothers everywhere, relies on the freshest, often local, ingredients. Eating fresh, not frozen vegetables, seafood, and pasta is healthier because there are fewer processed ingredients.

Take pasta, for example. Fresh pasta is made from flour, egg, and water. That's it! No hydrogenated oils, excess fat, or chemicals you can't pronounce. 

2. Eating Italian Food Can Double Your Vegetable Intake for the Day

If you are someone that struggles to get enough vegetables in your diet, Italian food might be the answer. 

Eggplant Parmigiana, pasta primavera, and vegetarian pizza all feature delicious, fresh vegetables. Vegetables provide essential nutrients that help you maintain your immune system, establish a healthy weight, and lower blood pressure.

So the next time you are looking at an Italian food menu, search for those veggie-heavy options for a guilt-free meal. Add a cup of minestrone soup to your order for veggies and iron-rich beans as well!

3. Carbs Are Your Friend

Dishes like pasta and pizza are relatively high in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are a macronutrient that provides your body with energy. Dietary guidelines suggest that 45% to 65% of a person's diet should come from carbohydrates.

And while not all of that should come from simple carbohydrates like pasta or pizza, you can mix those in with whole grains for a well-rounded diet.

4. Not All Italian Food Is High in Calories

People assume that all Italian food is high in calories, but it's not! There are plenty of tasty Italian dishes low in calories too. Bruchetta, white bean soup, salad, and pasta with red sauce are all lower calorie alternatives if you are trying to maintain a healthy diet.

You can also consider ordering a smaller portion of a meal to lower the total calorie consumption. Savor every bite and focus on quality, not quantity. 

5. Even the Wine Is Healthy

Okay, maybe wine isn't the healthiest of beverage choices, but it has been shown as improving heart health when consumed in moderation. 

A glass of red wine has antioxidants that lower your cholesterol protecting your heart and lower your risk of having a heart attack. So as long as you consume in moderation, enjoy wine with your next Italian meal!

Eating Italian Food Can Be Healthy

Eating Italian food does not have to come at the expense of staying healthy. Different Italian dishes offer a good source of vegetables, beans, and whole-grains. 

The next time you visit an Italian restaurant, think about how you can make the healthiest choices possible and enjoy your meal guilt-free! You deserve it!

If you're looking for a new favorite Italian restaurant, contact us today for dining, takeout, or delivery.