Carbohydrates: Good vs. Bad

 

Carbohydrates are our main source of fuel, especially for our brains. Completely eliminating them from your diet isn't a very good idea. Simple carbs such as soda,candy and other snacks that provide our body with no vitamins and minerals, just pure energy are known as empty calories. Too many of these can lead to obesity and diabetes.

On the other hand, complex carbs provide us with an abundance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Some examples of foods that contain complex carbs are 100% whole wheat breads, cereals made from 100% whole wheats, fresh fruits and vegetables.

A major source of these good carbs are whole wheats. The more a food is processed the more nutrients are taken out of the food. When white bread is made, it is processed thereby removing nutrients. Some vitamins and minerals are added back into the flour but most of the fiber is not.

Fiber has been shown to protect against colon cancer and lower cholesterol levels, so it is very important in your diet. A major source of fiber, vitamins and minerals are fruits, vegetables and whole wheats.

For more information on how carbohydrates work and how they can affect your health, visit the Guide to Carbohydrates. You can also check out what foods others are eating for an adequate intake of good carbs at the diet forums.

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Here are some topics that are currently being discussed on a host of nutrition issues that will help you better understand how carbs can fit into your diet: