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Exploring Resistant Starch in Pasta

Apr 15, 2025

Lecture on Resistant Starch Experimentation with Pasta

Presenter: Steve from Serious Keto

Introduction

  • Steve has conducted various tests on resistant starch and blood glucose levels.
  • Previous tests included potatoes, rice, tapioca starch, green banana flour, and different types of bread.
  • Current focus: Testing the effects of resistant starch in pasta, as requested by viewers.

Background

  • Reference to a BBC show, "Trust Me, I'm a Doctor," featuring Dr. Denise Robertson.
    • Discussed creating resistant starch in pasta by cooking, cooling, and reheating.
    • Claimed a 50% reduction in glucose spike and benefits to gut microbiome.

Testing Methodology

  • Steve uses a Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor and Levels Health software for data analysis.
  • Disclaimers:
    • Steve is not diabetic and not a scientist.
    • Single-person sample size; results may vary.
  • Variables controlled:
    • Tests conducted while fasted, typically between noon and 1 PM.
    • Two-day break between tests to normalize glucose levels.
    • No physical activity prior or during testing.

Pasta Testing

  1. Test 1: Plain Cooked Pasta

    • 100 grams servings of spiral pasta with Rayo's Arabiata sauce.
    • Results:
      • 19-point glucose rise in two hours (up to 28 points later).
      • Took over four hours to return to baseline.
  2. Test 2: Cold Pasta

    • Cooled pasta consumed cold.
    • Results:
      • 38-point glucose spike.
      • Took 4.5 hours to return to baseline.
      • More gas experienced compared to cooked pasta.
  3. Test 3: Reheated Pasta

    • Pasta cooled and then reheated.
    • Results:
      • 16-point rise, aligned with 50% reduction claim.
      • Faster return to baseline compared to previous tests.
      • Less gas experienced.
  4. Test 4: Cold Pasta with Oil

    • Pasta refrigerated longer and served with oil and seasoning.
    • Results:
      • 36-point glucose spike.
      • 3.5 hours to return to baseline.
      • Increase in ketones noted.

Observations and Conclusions

  • Weight and ketone effects varied with different pasta preparations.
  • Only reheated pasta showed reduced glucose response and less gas.
  • Other effects:
    • Increased mucus and possible inflammatory reactions from wheat.
  • Conclusion: Resistant starch reduces, but does not eliminate, glucose responses.
  • Personal decision to avoid pasta due to inflammation and mucus issues.

Final Thoughts

  • Resistant starch might allow some to include certain carbs in a low-carb lifestyle.
  • Steve shares personal reasons for continuing keto beyond glucose control.
  • Encouragement for viewers to decide what works for their dietary needs.

Additional Resources

  • Links to other resistant starch experiment videos and favorite keto noodles.
  • Viewer engagement requested (likes, thanks, coffee support).