Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Good vs bad carbs

 Eat more healthy carbs and whole grains
Choose healthy carbohydrates and fiber sources, especially whole grains, for long lasting energy. Whole grains are delicious and satisfying! Studies  have shown people who eat more whole grains tend to have a healthier heart.

A quick definition of healthy carbs and unhealthy carbs
Healthy carbs include whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables. Healthy carbs are digested slowly, helping you feel full longer and keeping blood sugar and insulin levels stable.

Unhealthy carbs are foods such as white flour, refined sugar, and white rice that have been stripped of all bran, fiber, and nutrients. Unhealthy carbs digest quickly and cause spikes in blood sugar levels and energy.

Tips for eating more healthy carbs
Include a variety of whole grains in your healthy diet, including whole wheat, brown rice quinoa, and barley. Experiment with different grains to find your favorites!! I love quinoa ! 
Be  sure you're really getting whole grains!!! Be aware that the words stone-ground, multi-grain, 100% wheat or bran leads you to believe its something it's not !  Look for the words  whole grain or 100% whole wheat  at the beginning of the ingredient list. A lot of people just grab whatever they see "wheat" on but you need to make sure it is 100% . Ezekiel bread is also really good for you and yummy !!! 
Try mixing grains as a first step to switching to whole grains. If whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat pasta dont sound good at first, start by mixing what you normally use with the whole grains. You can gradually increase the whole grain to 100%. Honestly I prefer the anything 100% whole wheat it whole grain over non, not only because it is better for you , but it honestly tastes better to me :) 
Avoid: Refined foods such as breads, pastas, and breakfast cereals and crackers that are not whole grain

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