Carbohydrates have almost become a dirty word in today’s healthy minded dieters. But… carbohydrates are necessary to life and a key to health and wellness. So let’s let the truth about carbs come out of the closet.
First and foremost, carbohydrates exist in almost everything we eat (fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, etc.) Processed carbs are not as healthy as unprocessed ones. Some processed carbs have their fiber and nutrients stripped away. Stripped carbs (wheat, corn, rice) release sugar quickly and trigger blood sugar fluctuations. They also don’t sustain energy for the brain. On the other hand, intact carbs (fruits, vegetables, & other whole carbs) have fiber and slow digestion, creating a lasting energy source for the brain and body.
Filling the body with stripped carbs (white pasta, pastries, & breads) increases the risk of health issues like heart disease and diabetes. They are the “bad” carbs. But, there is another class of carbs that are the key to health. The intact carbs (have fiber) provide key nutrients in a slower digestible form and satisfy hunger. In fact, looking globally for the countries with the lowest diabetes, we see carbs front and center in those diets. So not all carbs are bad – but the stripped ones are.
Challenge yourself to avoid stripped carbs and embrace intact ones. In this way you can satisfy your cravings and hunger while loading up on maximum nutrition.
