Carb Carnival

Figuring Carbs Out Is Rather Important

So you're hearing all carbs are bad, huh?

Well, that's not entirely true. What is true is that many people are overweight, and carbs probably do play a role in that. We are not going to lie to you about that. You are on the money there. After all, carbs are everywhere--even in places where you least expect them to be. If you've ever been on a diet that focuses on low carbs (or if you're considering it) you probably know that.

The full break down on carbs, both good and bad

Most of the bad carbs you hear about are in foods made with white refined sugar and flour.

That is the simple explanation. But it can get more complicated than that. Literally. Sometimes, these carbs are disguised. Sugar has many different names, like corn syrup, sucrose, fructose, dextrose and glucose. In a nutshell, simple carbs are sugars and complex carbohydrates are starches. Simple carbohydrates are easy for the body to digest. It releases a lot of insulin into your bloodstream causing your blood sugar level to go up quickly. Soon after, that "sugar rush" you get after eating a candy bar is soon followed by a "sugar crash" when your blood sugar level drops again, and the whole cycle starts over.

Complex carbs take longer for the body to digest, so you feel full longer and your blood sugar levels remain stable. As a result, you don't have to eat as much to feel satisfied. These are good carbs, baby. In addition, complex carbs tend to provide your body with essential nutrients. Simple carbs do not. Eating complex carbs instead of simple carbs is one of the best things you can do for your body. Complex carbs can be found in fruits, vegetables, whole grain or whole wheat breads, brown rice and whole wheat pasta.

Since most complex carbohydrates have a lot of fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, you'll avoid constipation and build up your immune system to ward off colds and diseases. There you have it. Unlike with bad ones, counting carbs and making sure they be of the good kind is sure to help you get, and stay healthy. Period. Bottom line: If you're thinking of going on a low carb diet, simply cut back to 130-150 grams of carbs a day, and make them the healthy ones (complex carbohydrates).