Why are some Carbohydrates good and some are bad?
Good carbohydrates (or complex carbohydrates) are:
- High in fiber
- Natural in sugars
- Low glycemic count
- Slower digestion which means prolonged energy levels
- Keeps you fuller longer
- Helps with weight loss
Bad carbohydrates (or simple carbohydrates) are:
- Low in fiber
- Refined and processed
- Faster to digest so energy levels slump quicker and hunger comes back quicker
- Added sugars
- Cause higher insulin levels
- High in glycemic count
- They convert into fat cells and cause weight gain
Examples of good and bad carbohydrates
Good examples:
- Fresh fruits
- Fresh vegetables
- Legumes
- Beans
- Peas
- Lentils
- Whole grains
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- Pure oats
- Pumpkin seeds
- Chia seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Sweet potatoes
- Potatoes
- Walnuts
- Peanuts
- Almonds
- Macadamia nuts
- Hazelnuts
Bad examples:
- Fruit juices
- Soda or pop
- Cookies
- Pastries
- Cakes
- White bread
- White crackers
- Regular pasta
- Chocolates and other candy
- Ice cream
- Frozen yogurt
- Potato chips
- French fries
