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Best Pasta for Weight Gain
By Lucy Yanckello, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Pasta always gets lots of love on dinner tables because it is filling, familiar, and easy to pair with a wide range of nutritious foods. When your goal is to gain weight or build muscle, pasta can help you reach your calorie goals and fuel hard workouts without making your meals feel too heavy. Is pasta good for mass gain? Is pasta good for weight gain? Pasta can be good for mass gain because it is a carbohydrate rich food that helps increase your total calorie intake without requiring very large portions. Weight gain occurs when you are in a caloric surplus, or when you consume more calories than your body burns. Pasta paired with sauce, protein, and healthy fats is an easy way to boost daily calories without feeling overly full. On its own, pasta does not cause weight gain. The magic comes from adding calorie-dense toppings or eating larger portions, increasing your overall food intake. Is pasta good for bulking? Is pasta good for gaining muscle? Pasta is a solid carbohydrate choice for anyone in the bulking phase because carbs help fuel workouts and support recovery through replenishing glycogen storages. Glycogen is the body's stored form of carbohydrates, so keeping glycogen stores full makes it easier to train at a higher intensity consistently, which is key for muscle growth. Pasta alone won’t make you gain muscle. Muscle growth depends on resistance training and protein intake. However, pasta supports muscle gain by providing carbohydrates that supply energy for workouts and help increase overall calorie intake. When your body has enough energy from carbohydrates, it is more likely to use protein for muscle repair and growth rather than breaking it down for energy. What pasta has the highest calories? What pasta has the most carbs? Calorie and carbohydrate content varies based on type, shape, and portion size. Generally, dried pasta like penne, spaghetti, and fettuccine contain about 200 calories, and 40 to 45 grams of carbohydrates per cooked up. Larger shapes and stuffed pastas often have higher calorie and carbohydrate counts because they pack more pasta per serving, or include fillings that have extra calories. Whole grain pastas may have slightly more calories and a bit more fiber, but the biggest calorie drivers are portion size and what you add to your pasta. Protein-enriched pastas, such as those made from chickpeas, lentils, or added protein blends can also support weight gain. These pastas usually contain slightly fewer carbohydrates than traditional wheat pasta but provide more protein per serving, which can be helpful for muscle recovery. Can gnocchi help you gain weight? Is ravioli good for weight gain? Yes, gnocchi can help with weight gain because it is made from potatoes and flour, which provide carbohydrates and calories in an easy to eat form. A typical serving of gnocchi provides similar calories and carbs to wheat-based pastas, making it a good option if you need variety in your diet when trying to consume more calories. Ravioli is also a good option for weight gain because the filling often includes cheeses, meats, or both. Those additional calories can help you reach your goals faster than plain pasta alone. Is whole wheat pasta good for gaining weight? Is white pasta good for weight gain? Both whole wheat and white pasta can support weight gain. Whole wheat pasta contains more fiber and micronutrients because it includes the entire grain, which makes meals more satiating and nutritious. Fiber can also help with digestion, making it easier for some people to manage larger portions over time. However, fiber can also make some people feel fuller for longer, stifling their ability to consume the amount of calories they need to stay in a surplus. If this is the case for you, opt for white pasta, which is more easily digestible, and often easier to eat more of in one sitting. Nutrient quality matters, but for weight gain total energy intake is the bigger driver. Can you eat noodles to gain weight? Are noodles good for weight gain? Noodles can absolutely help with weight gain. Whether ramen, udon, soba, or egg noodles, each provides carbohydrates that contribute calories and energy. Similar to pasta, be sure to pair noodles with calorie dense additions like oils, sauces, proteins, and vegetables to help increase your caloric content even more. What pasta dish is good for weight gain? What pasta dish is good for adding muscle? The best pasta dishes for weight gain combine carbohydrates with proteins and fats to increase calorie content and support recovery. A classic choice is pasta paired with a generous portion of chicken or sausage, a cream-based sauce, and veggies or nuts for healthy fats. Alfredo, carbonara, baked ziti, and lasagne with meat sauce are examples of pasta dishes that pack both calories and taste. For increased muscle mass, focus on dishes with high quality protein. For example, pair whole-wheat pasta with grilled chicken or turkey, vegetables, and toss it in olive oil. Another great option is shrimp scampi with lemon, butter and parsley. These meals give you carbs for energy, protein for muscle repair, and fat to bump up calories. What pasta is good for weight gain? What’s the best pasta to gain weight? The best pasta for weight gain is one that you enjoy eating in large portions and works within your caloric needs for weight gain. The biggest factor is your overall meal composition. Adding proteins, healthy fats, and flavorful sauces turns an ordinary bowl of pasta into a high-calorie meal that fits into your weight gain plan. Where can I buy the best fresh pasta online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads and pastas that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular pastas include fresh cavatappi and fresh tonnarelli, along with classic marinara sauce and extra virgin olive oil. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Lucy Yanckello received her Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. She currently works as a medical writer and enjoys being able to help people better understand nutrition and science. This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
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Best Bread for Weight Gain
By Lucy Yanckello, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Bread has long been a staple in many diets, and like most foods works best when eaten in moderation. If your goal is weight gain, bread can be a helpful and reliable way to add calories, carbohydrates, and energy to your day. Is bread good for mass gain? Is bread good for weight gain? Bread can support mass gain because it provides carbohydrates and calories in a form that is not only easy to eat, but is also easy to pair with other foods. In opposition to weight loss, which requires a consistent calorie deficit, weight gain requires a consistent calorie surplus. For many people, adding bread to meals or snacks is a practical way to make this surplus more achievable. Is bread good for bulking? Is bread good for gaining muscle? During a bulking phase calories matter, and carbohydrates play an important role. Bread can help provide carbohydrates to fuel workouts and support recovery through replenishing glycogen stores, the body's stored form of carbohydrates. Keeping glycogen stores full makes it easier to train at a higher intensity consistently, which is key for gaining muscle. Bread does not help build muscle directly as muscle gain comes from resistance training and adequate protein intake. However, it supports the conditions needed for muscle growth by helping keep you in a caloric surplus. What bread has the highest calories? What bread has the most carbs? Calorie and carbohydrate content varies widely depending on the type of bread and portion size. Dense breads like multigrain and whole grain breads tend to be higher in calories because they contain whole grains that have not been stripped of the bran, germ, and endosperm. These parts contain more naturally occurring fats, fiber, and nutrients. This makes the bread more filling and slightly more calorie dense than refined white bread. Additionally, many multigrain loaves also include added seeds or grains, which further increase calorie content. Multigrain and whole wheat sandwich breads provide a significant amount of carbs. With 11 to 20 grams per slice, carbohydrate content accounts for most of the calories in the bread. If weight gain is the goal, opt for thicker or denser breads which makes it easier to increase caloric content without increasing meal volume too much. Does sourdough bread help you gain weight? Sourdough bread can help support weight gain in the same way other breads do by contributing to overall calories and carbohydrate intake. For some, sourdough is also easier to digest which can be helpful when trying to eat more food overall. Additionally, it has a rich flavor and holds up well to toppings, making it fit well into a calorie surplus. Is whole wheat bread good for gaining weight? Is white bread good for weight gain? Both whole wheat and white bread can contribute to weight gain. Whole wheat bread contains more fiber and micronutrients which adds additional nutritional value. However, fiber can be a double edged sword when trying to gain weight because it slows digestion and increases satiety. Some people find this helpful, but others find it limiting when trying to eat more. White bread is lower in fiber often making it easier to eat in larger quantities. For those who struggle to consume enough calories, white bread is a good option. However, the best choice of bread is one that you enjoy and helps meet your caloric needs. What to eat with bread for weight gain? Is bread and peanut butter good for weight gain? Is bread with butter good for weight gain? Bread becomes most effective for weight gain when it is paired with calorie-dense foods. Peanut butter is a popular option because it adds healthy fats, calories, and protein all with very little volume. Additionally, bread with peanut butter is easy to prepare, making it a quick way to add calories to your day. Butter is another way to increase calories because it adds fat without significantly increasing portion size. Other additional toppings include cheese, avocado, eggs, and other nut based spreads. These, in combination with bread, increase caloric density and make bread a vehicle to promote weight gain. What bread is good for weight gain? What’s the best bread to gain weight? The best bread for weight gain is one that you enjoy and helps you meet your caloric needs. Dense breads like whole grain loaves, sourdough, and seeded breads tend to provide more calories per serving. These options can aid in reaching higher calorie targets. However, if the high fiber content keeps you feeling full for too long, white bread is a good option as well. There is no single perfect bread for weight gain. Consistency matters more than the specific type, so choose the bread (or breads) you enjoy and pair it with calorie rich foods to keep you on track to meet your daily calorie goals. Where can I buy healthy bread online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, rolls, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads include whole wheat sourdough, plain sourdough loaf and rye sourdough loaf. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Lucy Yanckello received her Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. She currently works as a medical writer and enjoys being able to help people better understand nutrition and science. This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
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Best Pasta for a Bland Diet and BRAT Diet
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. Digestive issues can make deciding what to eat challenging, especially when you're worried about worsening your symptoms. Sticking to a bland diet can be one way to combat an upset stomach or diarrhea, but figuring out which foods fit into this category can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, certain types of pasta fit into a bland diet and can be a tasty option when you're looking for something to settle your stomach. Read on to learn more about the best pasta and noodle options for a bland diet. What can you eat on a bland diet? What is the best bland food for a stomach bug? A bland diet consists of soft, non-spicy, and low-fiber foods that are gentle on the stomach and can help alleviate symptoms of conditions like ulcers, heartburn, GERD, nausea, and vomiting. Foods that are commonly included in a bland diet are low-fat or non-fat dairy products, white pasta, cooked cereals, eggs, fish, and certain vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and potatoes. If you're dealing with a stomach bug or an upset stomach, it's best to avoid solid foods initially until your symptoms improve. Instead, focus on hydrating with liquids like clear broths, herbal teas, or non-caffeinated sports drinks. Once you’re able to tolerate liquids, you can gradually introduce simple, easily digestible foods like plain noodles, mashed potatoes, crackers, and toast. These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help prevent further irritation while you recover. Can you eat pasta on a bland diet? Can you eat noodles on a bland diet? Yes, you can eat pasta and noodles while on a bland diet, but some types are gentler on the stomach than others. Since low-fiber foods are recommended, pasta made with refined grains, such as white pasta or noodles, is typically the best choice. These are easier to digest than whole wheat alternatives, which have more fiber. Additionally, it's important to keep the seasoning and sauces to a minimum to prevent further stomach upset. Simple, plain pasta is the option to keep things gentle on your digestive system. Is pasta ok with an upset stomach? Is buttered pasta easy on the stomach? Pasta is typically well tolerated during an upset stomach, especially when it's low in fiber and prepared simply. Buttered pasta or noodles may be easy on digestion, though the high fat content in butter may worsen symptoms for some individuals. If that's the case, consider a light drizzle of olive oil or using broth to add flavor instead. Can you eat plain noodles with diarrhea? Is plain pasta ok for an upset stomach? Plain noodles or pasta are often a good option for those experiencing diarrhea or an upset stomach. When prepared simply with minimal ingredients and seasoning, white pasta can help soothe an irritated digestive system. The low fiber content of white pasta may also help reduce the severity and frequency of bowel movements, providing relief from diarrhea. Can you eat pasta on the BRAT diet? Can you eat noodles on a BRAT diet? Yes, you can eat pasta while on the BRAT diet. Since the BRAT diet consists of bland and easy-to-digest foods, white pasta and noodles are usually well-tolerated when made simply. As with other bland diets, it's best to avoid sauces and high-fat ingredients like cream or butter that could trigger digestive upset. What kind of pasta is best for a BRAT diet? What kind of noodles are best for a BRAT diet? The best pasta for a BRAT diet follows the same guidelines as for any bland diet. Low-fiber pasta and noodles, particularly white pasta, are the ideal choice when following a BRAT diet. White pasta is made from refined grains that have had most of their fiber removed during processing, making it generally easier to digest than whole wheat pasta, which is high in fiber. What is the best pasta for an upset stomach? What noodles are good for diarrhea? The best pasta and noodles for digestive issues are the same as those recommended for a bland diet. Plain white pasta and noodles are usually easy on the stomach and gentle on the digestive system due to their low fiber content and mild flavor. For upset stomach and diarrhea, simple white pasta like spaghetti, penne, or egg noodles is best when prepared plainly with just a small amount of butter or olive oil, avoiding heavy sauces, spices, or dairy that could further irritate the digestive tract. Where can I buy the best fresh pasta online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads and pastas that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular pastas include fresh cavatappi and fresh tonnarelli. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
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What's Healthier: Whole Grains vs. Refined Grains vs. Enriched Grains?
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. It seems like everywhere you turn, you hear that whole grains are superior, and it can feel like you just can’t eat enough of them. You might know whole grains are good for you in theory, but do you know how they compare to other types of grains? In this article, we’ll help demystify the world of grains so you can make informed choices during your next grocery trip. What is the difference between whole grains, refined grains, and enriched grains? As the name suggests, whole grains contain all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. In contrast, refined grains are milled to remove the bran and germ, which also strips away many essential nutrients. Enriched grains are refined grains that have had some of those lost nutrients, such as iron and B vitamins, added back in after processing. What is healthier to eat: whole grains or refined grains or enriched grains? Whole grains are the healthiest type of grain because they are the least processed and retain the entire grain kernel (bran, germ, and endosperm), making them rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Enriched grains are the next best option, as some nutrients lost during processing, such as iron and B vitamins, are added back in. Refined grains are the least healthy, as they lack fiber and many essential nutrients. They also tend to have a higher glycemic index, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels. Is it good to eat whole grains every day? Is there a downside to eating whole grains? Yes, it is generally recommended to eat whole grains every day as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Research has shown that a diet rich in whole grains is associated with health benefits, such as a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Whole grains are also an excellent source of fiber, which supports healthy digestion and can aid in weight management. However, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort due to the high fiber and complex carbohydrate content of whole grains, particularly if they have sensitivities or underlying digestive conditions. Are whole grains inflammatory? Are refined grains inflammatory? Whole grains are generally not considered inflammatory. In fact, their high fiber and antioxidant content may help reduce inflammation in the body. These nutrients support gut health and promote a balanced immune response. In contrast, refined grains may contribute to inflammation. Because they lack fiber and essential nutrients, refined grains can disrupt the gut microbiome and cause blood sugar spikes, both of which are linked to inflammatory responses. Are enriched grains good for you? Enriched grains are not necessarily considered healthy, though they are a better option than refined grains. While certain nutrients are added back during the enrichment process, enriched grains still lack the full nutritional profile of whole grains, particularly fiber and other vitamins and minerals that are lost during processing. What are examples of refined grains? What are examples of whole grains? Some common examples of refined grains include white pasta, white rice, and white bread. In short, any product made with white flour is made from refined grains. In contrast, whole grain flour can be used to make brown rice, brown pasta, and whole wheat or whole grain bread. Other examples of whole grains include oats, quinoa, and barley. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
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Best Bread for BRAT Diet
By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain, opens in a new tab is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. You’ve probably heard of the BRAT diet – maybe you’ve even been advised to follow it during an illness. In this article, we’ll dive into one of the staple foods of the BRAT diet –bread–and explain which type is easiest to digest and why. It is important to remember that this article is not medical advice; consult with your doctor or a registered dietician before making changes to your diet. What is the BRAT diet? What can you eat on the BRAT diet? The BRAT diet refers to a bland diet that is composed of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast as its core suggested foods. Traditionally recommended by physicians as a short-term approach, the goal of the BRAT diet is to ease digestive issues, such as stomach upset and diarrhea. The BRAT diet emphasizes low-fiber foods that are gentle on the digestive system. In addition to the core foods of the BRAT diet, other safe options include crackers, oatmeal, apple juice, and clear broths. When should you eat the BRAT diet? Physicians often recommend the BRAT diet for individuals dealing with nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This bland diet is designed to be gentle on the stomach and may help alleviate symptoms of digestive upset. If you’re unsure whether the BRAT diet is appropriate for your situation, consult your doctor for advice. What kind of bread is best for a BRAT diet? The best type of bread to eat on a BRAT diet is one that’s easy to digest, such as white bread. Its low fiber content makes it gentle on the digestive system and easy for the body to absorb. Because white bread is made from refined grains with the bran and germ removed, it breaks down more easily during digestion. Is BRAT diet ok for IBS? The BRAT diet can serve as a short-term strategy to help manage certain IBS symptoms, such as diarrhea. However, it is not recommended as a long-term approach to IBS management due to its limited nutritional value. Over time, relying solely on the BRAT diet may lead to nutrient deficiencies and does not address the underlying causes of IBS symptoms. Is toast better than bread on BRAT diet? Is bread or toast better for upset stomach? Toast is often recommended over untoasted bread on the BRAT diet because it’s easier for the body to digest. The toasting process breaks down some of the carbohydrates in bread, which can make it gentler on the stomach. For this reason, toast, rather than regular bread, is considered one of the staple foods of the BRAT diet. Is white bread good for a BRAT diet? Is whole wheat bread ok for BRAT diet? White bread is often recommended as part of the BRAT diet and is preferred over whole wheat bread for those following a bland diet, as it tends to be easier to digest. Although whole wheat bread is generally more nutritious, its higher fiber and FODMAP content can make it harder to digest for some individuals, potentially worsening stomach issues or triggering IBS symptoms. Is sourdough bread ok for an upset stomach? Can you eat sourdough on BRAT diet? Sourdough bread is usually ok for an upset stomach and can be easier to digest than white bread for some individuals. Its extended and distinctive fermentation process helps break down certain compounds naturally, making sourdough bread gentler on the digestive system and a good bread option for the BRAT diet. Where can I buy the best fresh bread online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, rolls, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads include sourdough whole wheat, sourdough 7-grain, slow fermented 3-seed bread, and sourdough rye. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods. About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
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