Pasta is a food rebel. And like all rebels, it has stirred a revolution in the world of food.

Those who used to say that pasta is fattening or not good for one’s health in the longer run, cannot help but grab that spatula for another plateful. Because even they cannot deny the healthy benefits that this epicurean feast packs in every bite.

Keep a bowl of pasta handy while you read on. And for every nutritional byte, take a bite. That should keep things interesting (and nutritious).

1. Sustained energy
Pasta is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a slow release of energy. Unlike simple sugars that offer a fleeting boost of energy, pasta helps sustain energy. So now you know why it’s some sort of tradition for athletes to eat pasta before a big event.

2. Low Sodium and Cholesterol levels
Every 100g of pasta contains only 6mg of Sodium and 33mg of cholesterol. Such low-levels ensure there are no harmful effects on your heart. But what if it wants more? Well, the heart wants what the heart wants.

3. Folic acid
Enriched pasta is fortified with folic acid, which is essential for women of child-bearing age. A serving of dry pasta supplies the equivalent of roughly 100 mg of folic acid, or 25% of the recommended daily intake.

4. Balanced diet
Current dietary regulations recommend 65% of daily calories to come from carbohydrates, such as pasta. So the next time someone tells you not to have pasta daily, give him a fork too. Let him taste an actual balanced diet for once. (That should restore the balance to his views too.)

5. Low Glycemic Index
Pasta has a low GI, which means your blood sugar levels won’t rise quickly.

Mmm, feeling healthier already?