Finding the right pasta for diabetes management is crucial for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels without compromising taste. With so many varieties available, choosing the best option can feel challenging. We’ve asked expert dietitian Megan Huff to help us with our selections.
In our buying guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting pasta suitable for people with diabetes. We’ll also highlight our top 10 picks from the best-selling pasta for people with diabetes on Amazon, making it easier to enjoy your favorite meals while supporting your health.
Quick List - Top Pasta for Diabetics
Megan is a registered dietitian and gluten-free food influencer (@sayimafoodie) and owns a virtual nutrition private practice–Nutrition by Megan. Currently, she works as a performance nutrition intern at the United States Naval Academy. She has been quoted for her nutrition expertise in numerous media outlets, including Health, Forbes, People, Clean Plates, EatingWell, and Eat This, Not That! Megan earned her undergraduate degree in nutritional sciences and toxicology-dietetics at the University of California, Berkeley.
Mirai earned her degree in Marketing Management from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde. Throughout her studies, she gained valuable experience in content planning, research, and editing through various academic projects and internships. Her practicum further strengthened her marketing, sales, and public relations skills, where she learned to craft well-researched and tailored content for different audiences. Mirai applies her expertise to create engaging and informative content on various categories, including fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
People with diabetes can break down carbohydrates into glucose. However, due to insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes) or lack of insulin production (type 1 diabetes), glucose may remain in the bloodstream, elevating blood sugar levels.
While low-carb diets may help stabilize blood sugar, a balanced carbohydrate-controlled approach is often preferred. Aim for pasta containing about 45-75 grams of carbohydrates per serving. Pairing your carbohydrates with protein, healthy fats, and fiber helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Low-GI foods often contain more nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which contribute to overall health.
Low-glycemic index (GI) pasta is broken down more slowly, which can help maintain more stable blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy throughout the day. While GI shouldn’t be the only factor in food choices, it can serve as a helpful tool, especially when paired with other nutritious foods.
Spiral pasta shapes can hold sauces better than smoother options like penne, which might lead to consuming more of the sauce paired with it.
Spiral-shaped pastas like fusilli and rotini can be great for diabetes-friendly pasta dishes. Their grooves and twists hold onto sauces and oil-based dressings, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying. Fusilli pairs well with creamy or chunky sauces, while rotini’s tighter twists work nicely with lighter, oil-based options. Be sure to choose a balanced sauce, avoiding high intakes of saturated fats. Too much can increase LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Managing LDL cholesterol alongside blood sugar is essential for reducing the risk of complications, such as heart disease, in people with diabetes.
Pairing pasta (a carbohydrate source) with unsaturated fat sources like avocado oil or olive oil can help slow carbohydrate absorption and maintain more stable blood sugar levels. According to the American Heart Association, replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats can also help improve cholesterol levels and lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Low Carb | Low Glycemic | Gluten Free | Pasta Shape | Flavor | Amount | |||||
1 | Banza Bestseller Variety Case | ![]() | High Protein, Gluten-Free Pasta | Penne | Chickpea | 8 oz. | ||||
2 | Kaizen Fusilli|3 pack | ![]() | A Keto-Friendly Option With Extra Protein | Fusilli | Lupini Beans | 8 oz. | ||||
3 | Carbe Diem Penne 3 Pack | ![]() | Penne Pasta With Fewer Carbs | Penne | Durum Wheat | 12 oz. | ||||
4 | It's Skinny Fettuccine | ![]() | Low Carb, High-Fiber Fettuccine Pasta | Fettuccine | Konjac | 9.52 oz. | ||||
5 | Barilla Spaghetti | ![]() | Non-GMO Classic Spaghetti Pasta | Spaghetti | Semolina | 16 oz. | ||||
6 | Palmini Palmini |Linguine | ![]() | Low-Calorie Linguine Pasta | Linguine | Sliced Hearts Of Palm | 12 oz. | ||||
7 | Al Dente Carba-Nada Variety 2 Pack | ![]() | Fettuccine With Fewer Carbs | Fettuccine | Egg and Roasted Garlic | 10 oz. | ||||
8 | The Only Bean Organic Bean Pasta Variety Pack - Soy, Edamame, & Black Bean Spaghetti / Fettuccine|6 pack | ![]() | A Gluten-Free Option Packed With Nutrients | Spaghetti, Fettuccine | Edamame, Black Soybeans, and Soybean | 8 oz. | ||||
9 | Palmini Palmini |Angel Hair | ![]() | Non-GMO and Allergen-Free Pasta | Angel Hair | Sliced Hearts of Palm | 12 oz. | ||||
10 | Hethstia Konjac Noodle Low Carb Pasta Shirataki Spaghetti | ![]() | Konjac Yam Pasta for Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Diets | Shirataki Spaghetti | Konjac | 56.5 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Banza’s chickpea pasta is made from chickpeas, providing a high-protein alternative to traditional pasta. With 20g of protein per serving, it supports muscle repair and provides sustained energy. The pasta is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease. It is a good option for anyone seeking to add more plant-based protein to their diet while managing blood sugar levels.
Pasta Shape | Penne |
---|---|
Amount | 8 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Kaizen's Keto Pasta Fusilli is a low-carb, keto-friendly option with 20g of protein per serving and just 6g of net carbs. It is free of gluten and provides a low-carb or keto pasta substitute. This pasta offers a filling, high-protein choice while minimizing carbohydrate intake, ideal for anyone managing their blood sugar levels.
Pasta Shape | Fusilli |
---|---|
Amount | 8 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Pasta Shape | Penne |
---|---|
Amount | 12 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Pasta Shape | Fettuccine |
---|---|
Amount | 9.52 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Barilla Spaghetti is made from non-GMO ingredients, offering a classic pasta experience. It is a trusted brand known for its quality and consistency. This is an excellent option for those who do not need specialized pasta options but are looking for a reliable, non-GMO choice.
Pasta Shape | Spaghetti |
---|---|
Amount | 16 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Palmini Linguine is a low-calorie, low-carb pasta alternative. It’s naturally gluten-free and non-GMO, making it an ideal choice for anyone on a low-carb or gluten-free diet. Its light texture and neutral flavor make it a versatile addition to various dishes, suitable for those looking to maintain blood sugar levels without sacrificing taste.
Pasta Shape | Linguine |
---|---|
Amount | 12 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Carba-Nada’s Lower Carb Fettuccine offers fewer carbs than traditional pasta. It’s an ideal option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake while still enjoying the texture and flavor of regular fettuccine. This pasta works well for people managing blood sugar levels, providing a satisfying meal without excessive carbs.
Pasta Shape | Fettuccine |
---|---|
Amount | 10 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
This pasta is made from soy, black bean, and edamame, providing a significant source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. With no added gluten or artificial additives, it suits those managing blood sugar while seeking a balanced meal option. Its nutrient-dense profile supports high-protein diets.
Pasta Shape | Spaghetti, Fettuccine |
---|---|
Amount | 8 oz. |
This pasta delivers a naturally low-calorie and low-carb option ideal for those watching their carbohydrate intake. Its mild flavor pairs well with sauces, offering flexibility for various dishes. Non-GMO and free from common allergens, it’s a versatile addition to specialized diets.
Pasta Shape | Angel Hair |
---|---|
Amount | 12 oz. |
Low Carb | |
---|---|
Low Glycemic |
Formulated from konjac yam, this pasta is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs and calories. Known for its high water content and mild taste, it adapts to diverse recipes, especially for low-carb and paleo-friendly diets. Convenient for quick meals, it supports mindful eating without added starches.
Pasta Shape | Shirataki Spaghetti |
---|---|
Amount | 56.5 oz. |
No. 1: Banza |Bestseller Variety Case
No. 2: Kaizen |Fusilli|3 pack
No. 3: Carbe Diem|Penne 3 Pack
No. 4: It's Skinny|Fettuccine
No. 5: Barilla|Spaghetti
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