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grains

Couscous

+0.4

Refined wheat couscous acts like pasta, creating moderate blood sugar spikes and inflammatory responses despite its light texture and quick preparation.

Ingredient score breakdown

Refined semolina

+0.8

Small granules of refined wheat digest rapidly, spiking glucose and triggering insulin-mediated inflammation.

Gluten content

+0.3

Concentrated wheat protein can increase gut permeability and inflammatory cytokines in sensitive individuals.

Low fiber

+0.3

Minimal fiber fails to slow glucose absorption or support beneficial gut bacteria.

Iron enrichment

-1.0

Fortification with B vitamins and iron provides some nutritional benefit missing from whole grain options.

Why this score

This score is ingredient-based and weighted by DII-inspired evidence. Foods with added sugar, refined starches, and heavy processing trend higher; foods with fiber, omega-3, and polyphenols trend lower.

FODMAP note

Low FODMAP in servings up to 1 cup cooked, as refining removes the fructans present in whole wheat.

Healthier alternatives

  • quinoa bowl
  • whole wheat couscous

Related foods

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