According to a recent study from Italy published in the July issue of Nutrition and Diabetes, people who consumed pasta had lower BMIs.

In fact, noodle consumption wasn’t just linked to lower body mass index, but also lower waist circumference and waist to hip ratio, both indicators of heart disease.

You will never see a woman order pasta, especially in Dallas. Carbs are the devil!! Oh, bless those gals heart. Pasta, as it turns out might just be a fabulous part of your diet. Have I mentioned how much I adore gluten?

Before you high tail it to your favorite Italian restaurant (speaking of which, if you live in Dallas, you must got to Carbone’s immediately and order the spaghetti and meatballs; you’re welcome), remember that Italians generally walk WAY more than Americans.

In addition to walking daily, the traditional Italian diet highlights fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, fish and olive oil.

This study looked at 23,000 Italians, and focused one eating habits. One big notation here, this study is not a free pass for the endless helpings at Olive Garden. Like all things in life, overdoing your carb intake can equate to extra pounds.

So, take home message – you can totes consume pasta without gaining weight; just be mindful of your portions.

Pasta from unsplash