Often I get the question, “What is a good carbohydrate,
aren’t all bad for you?” The
answer is no, carbohydrates are the body’s main fuel source and must be taken
in daily. However, where you get
your carbohydrate calories from does matter. There is a difference between “good carbs” and “bad carbs”
and it’s actually not that complicated.
“Good Carbs” are whole grains, fruit, vegetables, beans, and low fat
dairy. These are nutrient-rich
foods that offer the body glucose as energy but also provide vitamins,
minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals.
“Bad Carbs” are just the opposite, nutrient-poor grains (such as baked
goods –cookies, pies, etc or refined grains), sweetened beverages, and
candy. They all provide the
glucose your body needs but that is it, they lack any vitamins, minerals,
fiber, etc. Bad carbs are digested
quickly and spikes blood sugar, while good carbs take much longer to break
down, controlling blood sugar and making you feel fuller longer. So think of your diet, replace refined
grains with whole grains, replaces candy and pies with fruit and low fat
cheese, greek yogurt, and lots of veggies, ditch the coke and have water!
Estelle L Benoit, RD, LDN