The Truth About Carbs

Do not be confused by the countless anecdotes and testimonial temptations of carbohydrates. As the infamous Atkins, South Beach, and other low-carbohydrate diet concepts are edified for the influence of low carbohydrate diets for weight loss, the awareness and significance of carbohydrates is often rejected.

The truth is, carbohydrates are central to a healthy diet. They supply fuel to the body that is essential for energy and proper organ function. Please be advised! Carbohydrates are not the cause of weight gain but rather the manner in which it is prepared and the type of carbohydrates consumed are the contributing factors. In fact, carbohydrates are essential for weight loss and a well-balanced diet.

Not all carbohydrates are created equal. There are two groups of carbohydrates, simple carbs and complex carbs. The discussions of bad carbohydrates are a reference of simple carbs. Simple carbohydrates are known as unhealthy carbs such as refined grains, white bread, white rice and regular pasta. The intake of simple carbohydrates should be limited because they’re caloric and limits nutrition and fiber. Simple carbohydrates are quickly digested and easily broken down as glucose. For this reason, they are not fundamental for weight control. Diets that include excessive amounts of simple carbohydrates can lead to major health risks such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease.

On the other hand, there are complex carbs. Complex carbohydrates are exceedingly important because they supply key nutrients and a balanced supply of glucose, the body’s preferred fuel.

In contrast to simple carbohydrates, complex carbohydrates are in their natural state, rich in vitamins, nutrients, minerals and are beneficial for weight control and diabetes. They are lower in calories and are not quickly digested. Complex carbohydrates are whole foods such as whole-grain bread, whole-grain pasta, brown rice, oatmeal, potatoes and other whole grains. Complex carbohydrates are also found in vegetables.

So there you have it! You no longer have to torment yourself with the dreadful resistance of your favorite bread or pasta. Perhaps a moderate slice from your favorite loaf of wheat or multi grained bread with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs will do you some good! The key is moderation, not deprivation.

“Deprivation is never the solution but rather reaps failure, yet moderation is the reality of living that reaps triumph” ~M. Guest