Whenever you hear the word carbs, you usually hear it in a negative context: cutting carbs, low carb, bad carbs. There is such a thing as good carbs, though, and here’s how you can tell the difference.
Good Carbs = Complex
The carbohydrates (carbs) you find in plants are usually good for you. Their structure is more complex so your body has to work hard to break them down into energy. They’re often filled with fiber, too, so they can be good for weight loss and sustaining your energy levels. Complex carbohydrates include:
- Legumes such as lentils, beans, and peas
- Fruits and vegetables with edible skin or seeds
- Nuts and seeds
- Whole grains such as quinoa and oats
- Brown rice, pasta, and cereals made of whole grains
Bad Carbs = Simple
Simple carbs are the ones you should be wary of. “These are carbohydrates that have many of their necessary nutrients removed. Simple carbs are digested quickly, causing spikes in blood sugar and making you feel hungry sooner. The short-lived fullness leads to overeating, weight gain, and conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.” (Source: WebMD) Simple carbs are usually processed (but not always) and they contain a lot of sugar. Simple carbs can be found in:
- White bread
- Enriched or refined pasta
- Enriched or refined dough
- Pastries
- White rice