Not all carbs are created equal

Note: this post has been updated in December 2021.

What about Carbs?

One of the key things about carbs that I like to remember and remind individuals is that all carbs are not created equal. There is such a thing as good carbs and bad carbs. One way to think about carbs and what has helped me is to keep the concept in my mind is how much these carbs are processed.  The more processed, the worse they are for your health. It goes back to the old saying that not all carbs are created equal. It is important however to look at Carbohydrates as the Source of Energy for our bodies.

Another effective way of building on the above is to think of carbs being simple or complex.

Simple carbohydrates found in processed snacks, sugar, and dairy products are digested quicker giving you a quick source of energy that doesn’t last long. The more you eat resulting in these carbs turning into fat. Simple carbs include raw sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, and high-fructose corn syrup, glucose, fructose, and sucrose and fruit juice concentrate.

Complex carbs provide stamina and endurance to get through your day. Complex carbs are natural such as fresh fruit, vegetables, and whole grains.

via - Good Carbs Vs Bad Carbs

A great article from the Cleveland Clinic Good Carb, Bad Carb: 4 Myths Debunked discusses the idea of good and bad carbs further and in their discussion debunks the four myths that seems to be so prevalent today when talking about carbs.

Time to focus on good carbs

Science confirms that a diet rich in whole, plant-based foods can help you live to the fullest and still get adequate protein. In fact, a growing number of physicians advocate a completely plant-based diet for many of their patients who suffer from diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Check out these great sources:

 Plant-Based Nutrition, 2E (Idiot’s Guides),

Nutrition Facts: The Truth About Food

The Forks Over Knives Plan - a simple plan that focuses on hearty comfort foods and does not involve portion control or worrying about obtaining single nutrients like protein, carbs, and calcium.

Express your opinion

What do you think?  Do you try to stay away from all carbs or just simple carbs?

If I can answer any questions or if you have an opinion that you would like to express, please let me know your thoughts by connecting with me below.