Summary: I had a question come in recently asking about what simple and complex carbohydrates are and if sugars are the same thing or different? So today we've got a 'What is' session that goes over the very basics of carbohydrates. It certainly doesn't cover every angle but gives you the very basics on choosing the best forms of carbohydrates and should help to overcome the confusion. Download the podcast here Here are 2 great articles you might like to read Guide to healthy carbohydrates Do carbohydrates make you fat? Below you'll find some food lists with some examples of simple and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates Complex carbohydrates sugar white sugar white flour white bread white pasta soft drinks & sodas energy drinks fruit juices many cereals many crackers many sauces and condiments processed food ice creams cakes & cookies pies fruit honey whole grains whole grain breads whole grain crackers like brown rice cakes gluten free wholegrain pastas brown rice quinoa buckwheat vegetables – loads fo them to choose from beans and legumes such as: chickpeas lentils adzuki beans borlotti beans navy beans wild rice oats sweet potato The easiest way to think about it is to avoid or minimise simple carbohydrates and eat more complex carbohydrates, especially vegetables. 4 simple steps to choosing the healthiest carbohydrates that will help keep you in the best state of health. 1. Vegetables are your number one main priority and source of carb. Always load up your plate with vegetables such as broccoli, tomato, onion, spinach, carrot, cucumber, lettuce, and so forth. There is such a wide variety of vegetables to choose from that you can virtually never get bored and if you don’t like vegetables then you need to start trying. 2. Fruits can be eaten in moderation but are best kept to a maximum of 2 pieces a day. 3. Gluten free whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, millet, buckwheat and so forth can be included in small portions. These are not best as the staple at every single meal. 4. As a rule do not displace vegetables for whole grains, you must get those veggies for their super nutritional power. It’s all about getting adequate nutrients into your body and vegetables contain plenty of those, and they don’t effect your blood sugar as much, so like I said, if you’re not eating enough of them now, you need to start trying. Be sure to subscribe to my weekly newsletter to be notified of new podcasts and receive weekly health tips too. See you soon Jedha
