Carbohydrates Are Our Friends
Whole grains contain all the nutrients of the entire grain seed. They provide fiber, B- complex vitamins, vitamin A and E and many minerals such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron and selenium. What every white product was at one time. Some examples of whole grains include oats, corn, brown and wild rice, rye, barley, millet, quinoa, buckwheat and whole wheat. When choosing whole grains, read the labels. Some names are deceiving so make sure to check the ingredients and look for the word “whole” as the first ingredient, also check for the products with the highest fiber content. There are many more products on the shelf that are without whole grains so read carefully. Not only is it extremely unhealthy to eat large amounts of animal products but it also is hard on the body. The carbs play an important role in metabolizing protein and fat. The no carbohydrate diet was big for awhile because it was most dieters wanted to hear, go ahead eat all the unhealthy, fattening foods your heart desires as long as you don’t eat carbohydrates. Does that sound right? The rise in obesity has been linked to the over consumption of animal products and overindulgence in carbohydrates. So balance is the key, but taking out the carbs entirely is not the answer. Americans eat twice as much protein as their body needs. This does not leave enough room for the healthy foods like whole grains, vegetables and fresh fruits. So incorporate more whole grains into your diet and take out the refined products. You will start to see a reduction in your BMI, the size of your waistline and reduce the risk of heart disease. Amongst all the health benefits of eating whole grains, a diet without carbohydrates is challenging and no fun, so go ahead and enjoy carbohydrates without the guilt- be picky though! |
When trying to lose a few pounds many people turn to fad diets, including a diet of no carbohydrates. Carbs have been stereotyped to contribute to growing waistlines. Unfortunately not enough emphasis has been on the quality of the carbohydrates. Some carbohydrates should be eliminated such as those that have been processed or contain enriched ingredients. Some examples are white bread, white pasta, white flour and white rice, see a trend here? These enriched grains have been milled and refined to improve its shelf life and to make it easier to bake with. The refining process removes the fiber, iron and many of the B-vitamins. Refining removes the bran and the germ of the seed, which takes care of 25% of the grain’s protein. The nutrients in carbohydrates are needed for healthy functioning of the internal organs, the nervous system and the muscular system.