The quick answer is, not ALL carbs are bad and SOME carbs have amazing health benefits.
In fact, COMPLEX carbs are your friend and are essential to weight loss, strength, energy, and health!
The real enemies that are sabotaging your weight loss goal are SIMPLE carbs!
Complex carbohydrates and simple carbohydrates differ in their chemical structure, how they are digested, and their effects on the body.
Simple carbohydrates, also known as “simple sugars,” are made up of one or two sugar molecules, and are found in foods like candy, soda, and baked goods. They are quickly digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, which can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.
Consuming too many simple carbohydrates can lead to spikes in blood sugar, which over time can increase the risk of developing diabetes and other health problems. Most, but not all of these simple carbs have little to no nutritional value and are calorically dense.
Complex carbohydrates, on the other hand, are made up of multiple sugar molecules that are linked together, forming a complex structure. They are found in foods like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes.
Because of their complex structure, they take longer to digest and are absorbed more slowly into the bloodstream, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides longer-lasting energy.
Complex carbohydrates are also a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.
In general, complex carbohydrates are considered healthier than simple carbohydrates because they provide sustained energy and are a good source of fiber and other nutrients.
However, it’s important to note that not all simple carbohydrates are bad, and not all complex carbohydrates are good.
For example, fruits contain simple carbohydrates, but they also contain fiber and other important nutrients. Similarly, some complex carbohydrates like white bread and pasta have been highly processed and stripped of their nutrients, making them less healthy choices.
It’s best to focus on whole, unprocessed foods and eat a variety of carbohydrates to ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.
Carbs we like:
Lentils, beans, oatmeal, quinoa, barley, vegetables, most fruits, rice, potatoes, buckwheat, split peas, yams.
Carbs we try to avoid:
White bread, pasta, table sugar, pancakes, pancake syrup, ice cream, cake, candy, fruit juice.
Marty Musikant
