Instant noodles come in a variety of flavors and are a convenient fast food option. Many people choose to have a bowl of instant noodles for a late-night snack. But does eating instant noodles make you gain weight?
Calories in Instant Noodles
Each 100 grams of instant noodles contains 472 kilocalories, 21.1 grams of fat, 9.5 grams of protein, 61.1 grams of carbohydrates, 0.9 grams of dietary fiber, 1144 milligrams of sodium, 134 milligrams of potassium, 80 milligrams of phosphorus, 38 milligrams of magnesium, and 25 milligrams of calcium.
Do Instant Noodles Make You Gain Weight?
Eating instant noodles can contribute to weight gain. One package of instant noodles contains approximately 500-600 kilocalories, with fat accounting for 20% of its nutritional composition. The seasoning packet often contains a significant amount of oil, further increasing the calorie content. Therefore, consuming instant noodles can lead to weight gain.
How to Eat Instant Noodles without Gaining Weight
Choosing non-fried noodles can significantly reduce the fat content. Additionally, reducing the amount of seasoning powder and sauce added when preparing the instant noodles can also lower the fat intake, making it less likely to contribute to weight gain.
When to Eat Instant Noodles without Gaining Weight
Consuming instant noodles during the day, when physical activity can help burn off some of the fat consumed, is less likely to contribute to weight gain. However, eating instant noodles at night, when physical activity levels are lower, can lead to fat accumulation in the body and subsequent weight gain.
Drawbacks of Eating Instant Noodles
Nutritional Imbalance
Instant noodles are high in fat but severely lacking in protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Long-term consumption of instant noodles can lead to nutritional imbalances.
Risk of Hypertension
Instant noodles have a very high sodium content, with 30% found in the noodles themselves and 70% in the seasoning powder and sauce packets. Regular consumption of instant noodles can result in excessive sodium intake and increase the risk of hypertension.
