Trying to “cut” or lower carbs?  Add spaghetti squash to your meal plan!

If you are trying to reduce carbohydrates to lose weight, manage gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, or manage your blood sugars because you have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes, spaghetti squash is a great low carb option to consider.  Why?

Spaghetti squash can be used the same way rice, pasta, or potatoes are used.

Let’s compare the carbs, calories, and other important nutrition facts in these:

When compared to the other options, spaghetti squash is far lower in calories and carbohydrates than the other choices.

It is also lower in fiber, and while most of us benefit from a higher fiber diet, some types of gastrointestinal conditions actually need lower fiber foods at certain times.

It’s one of those vegetables that works with just about anything!

Like the pasta it’s named after, spaghetti squash easily accepts a range of flavors.  I’ve used it in breakfasts, with soups, and paired with Italian, Mexican, Asian, Indian, and Mediterranean diet style dishes.  I’ve even used it with maple syrup and love it with rosemary & garlic chicken.  It’s one of those vegetables that works with just about anything!

It’s a “freezer friendly” food!

I’m willing to bet that your life is just as busy as mine, and you also need quick options for healthy dinners.  The good news is that cooked spaghetti squash freezes well.  Cook it once and use it for several meals even weeks later!

Here’s a handy tip: Once it has cooked, put it into half cup or cup portions in muffin tins and freeze.  Once solid, remove the “squash pucks” and store them in a freezer bag for future use. (Read “7 Ways to Use Spaghetti Squash” for some ideas!)

It’s FODMAP friendly!

If you’re trying the low FODMAP diet to reduce your irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, you can eat this non-starch vegetable with no worries.  (More than 2 cups at a meal could be an issue depending on what else you have with it.)  Got questions about that?  Read “What is the low FODMAP diet?” and “How a personalized plan for reducing IBS symptoms can help you enjoy life again.”

What does spaghetti squash taste like?

Like the pasta it’s named after, spaghetti squash has a very mild flavor that goes well with anything you put on it.  When it’s absolutely plain, it tastes similar to yellow summer squash.   The texture is different and hard to describe.  It’s not like pasta, but it’s not “mushy” like some squashes can get.  Someone who was seeing me for nutrition counseling once said it reminded them of the texture of rice-a-roni.

Cooking a low carb meal is possible

While spaghetti squash can be a good option for anyone to consider, it’s a great choice if your meal plans and diet if you’re trying to “cut carbs” or lower your carbohydrate counts to lose weight or manage your blood sugar levels because you have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes.   Or, if you’re trying to make low FODMAP meals more enjoyable.

Read “How to cook spaghetti squash” for several easy ways to cook this versatile and healthy winter squash.

Looking for other ways to eat healthier, lose weight, or have a healthier gut?

Adding spaghetti squash can help, but if you’re looking for more ways, instantly download your free guide,”5 Secrets to Successfully Changing How You Eat” by clicking here. 

If you want some personalized help related to your eating habits or health, start by booking a free discovery call. We can talk about what you want to accomplish and see if working with me would be helpful to you.