Table of contents:
- How to make instant noodles to make it healthier
- 1. Discard the marinade
- 2. Adding vegetables
- What are the consequences if you don't make instant noodles with the methods above?
Instant noodles are indeed the favorite food of many people, the proof is that this food is widely spread throughout the world. How not, besides being easy to make, the relatively cheap price, and the varied taste choices make instant noodles one of the most consumed foods, especially in Indonesia. However, did you know that instant noodles have poor nutritional content? Various studies have suggested that you should avoid instant noodles from your diet. However, if you occasionally want to consume them, then one way to make them healthier is to do the following tips.
How to make instant noodles to make it healthier
1. Discard the marinade
The amount of sodium in many types of instant noodles is usually the equivalent of 63% of your daily salt dose. That means about 1,500 milligrams of rock salt, or the equivalent of half a teaspoon of salt that goes straight into your body, and this will make your kidneys miserable.
The kidneys will do all the work when too much salt enters the body. This tiny organ helps your body to stay at your normal sodium level. However, when your body has too much salt, it seeps directly into the bloodstream, which makes your heart work harder and your blood pressure rises.
According to the Dietary Guidelines for American, the human body should receive less than 2,300 milligrams of salt per day and 1,500 milligrams for everyone over the age of 50. So, is there a right way to make instant noodles healthier? Discard most of the spices provided. Instead of using the entire seasoning package, try using other ingredients to help improve the flavor of the noodles. The most popular and no less delicious substitutes are spices such as fresh chilies, miso, or fish sauce. Keep in mind that the less you use instant seasoning on the noodles, the better.
2. Adding vegetables
There is no easier way than adding vegetables to your noodle pot, because vegetables contain essential nutrients for your body. However, not all vegetables are equally beneficial. When you go to a ramen restaurant, be aware that most of the vegetables in it are not carrots, peas, or corn. Don't worry though, because this is an opportunity for you to expand your gastronomic knowledge. Here are some great vegetables to mix into your instant noodles:
- Bok Choy: has large textured leaves and absorbs the soup well and also gives a good taste.
- Watercress: contains iron, calcium, and folic acid, but be sure to wash it before consumption.
- Finely sliced onions: this is a good ingredient to mix into the noodles and make sure to hold back your tears.
- Leek: this is also good for your noodle mix.
- Snap peas: it has a shape similar to edamame in Japanese restaurants.
Adding vegetables to instant noodles not only makes these fast foods healthier, they also make them taste better. If you have more time, add some fried or boiled eggs to the vegetables as well. Although eggs do not add to the health of your noodles, they are a great source of vitamin A, potassium, and many B vitamins such as folic acid, choline and biotin.
What are the consequences if you don't make instant noodles with the methods above?
According to Lisa Young, a nutritionist and lecturer at New York University, instant noodles are high in fat, high in sodium, high in calories, and difficult to digest. All of these factors can cause several health problems, such as high blood pressure, and the possible risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Young also said that the way to reduce the dangers of instant noodles is to not eat them every day, control portions, and add vegetables and other healthy foods. You can also make your own noodles at home without relying on instant noodles to make it healthier.
