Carbohydrates have gotten a very bad name due to fad diets. Granted some of them are bad, some are necessary in order to maintain a healthy diet. Having a reference list of carbohydrates will help clear up any confusion and make it easier for you to make healthy choices.
A major part of a healthy diet is the proper intake of carbohydrates. Too little carbohydrates and especially no carbohydrates at all can be very harmful to your body. It can affect your concentration, glucose levels, and even your body and organ functions.
There are two categories of carbohydrates. They are simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates also known as simple sugars are rapidly metabolized by your body. This can affect your mood; dramatically affect your blood sugar levels and energy levels.
Complex carbohydrates, also known as starches take much more time to metabolize. This allows for a more steady and regular flow of energy to your body.
Simple sugars can be looked at as being both good and bad for your health. Bad simple sugars are those that come in the form of processed or convenient foods.
Bad simple sugars are candies, cookies, boiled sweets, soft drinks and jams. You definitely want to avoid these carbs. The good simple sugars are the all natural fruits. You are welcome and urged to eat as many of these as you want.
Bad complex carbohydrates simply don’t exist. They have many benefits as well. They will help in losing weight. They will also leave you with a feeling of being full for a longer period of time than simple sugars because they are being metabolized slowly. This will help you to avoid between meal snacks.
The best sources of complex carbs are unprocessed whole grains. Examples of these are barley, bran, and cornmeal. Other good choices include brown rice, wholegrain breads, potatoes or any other root vegetable and corn and peas.
In order to maintain a well balanced you must include carbohydrates. This is going to be the fuel that your body needs to stay healthy. Making a list of carbs that you like and incorporate them into your diet and your body will thank you.
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