There is a HUGE misconception that "carbs are bad for you", but this couldn't be further from the truth! Let's get one thing straight… YES you will see weight loss if you eliminate ALL carbohydrates, but the issue is that while losing weight, there is a significant reduction in your metabolic rate.
Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose (sugar) which the body depends on, effectively making carbohydrates the body's number one source of energy. There is a difference between "bad carbs" and "good carbs" though, this is where the misconception of "carbs are bad for you" comes into play.
“Bad” carbs are what we refer to as simple carbohydrates, these types are easily digested. These foods give you a quick energy spike, but this doesn't last long. The body only takes what they need when it comes to glucose, so with this rapid sugar rush, the body cant use it all at once so it stores the leftover as fat.
“Good” carbs are what we call complex carbohydrates. These foods take longer to digest, which means they are broken down slower, resulting in sustained energy as the glucose is released into your system at a much slower rate.
Here are some GREAT examples of COMPLEX (good!) carbohydrates -
BROWN RICE: This is GREAT source because it is filling and also not expensive! Its also one of the richest sources of carbohydrates among grains.
CHICKPEAS: One cooked cup of chick peas can contain up to 45 grams of slow-acting carbs.
SWEET POTATO: One medium-sized cooked sweet potato comes in a little over 100 calories and boasts 27g of total carbohydrates.
WHOLE WHEAT PASTA: Because sometimes you just need pasta—and whole-wheat kinds offer two to three times more fiber than refined white varieties, but they’re just as versatile and delicious.
Thank you SO much for reading!
Leah X
