You Need These Good Carbohydrates In Your Life
By Sara Butler
Carbohydrates have a bad reputation, but the truth of the matter is that your body needs them to work optimally. For most people, cutting out carbohydrates is not a good idea and can deprive organs and systems in your body of the fuel they need to work their best.
However, there are some carbohydrates that should be avoided, such as highly processed carbohydrates and added sugars. If you're not sure what carbohydrates are good for you, then read on to find out some good carbs to add to your life.
Why You Need Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates play an important role in your health. They're often rich in fiber, which your body needs to protect itself against a myriad of conditions including heart disease, colon cancer, and diabetes. Plus, fiber helps you feel fuller for longer, which helps to control how much you eat and maintain a healthy weight.
Your brain also uses carbohydrates as its main source of fuel. If you're not getting enough of the good carbohydrates in your diet, you may find that your brain power suffers and that your thinking or mood isn't what it used to be.
Start With Legumes
Legumes are carbohydrates that are really good for you. They're full of fiber and protein, so they should be incorporated into your diet as often as possible.
Some legumes you may want to eat more of include peanuts, beans, chickpeas, edamame, peas, and lentils. You can make soups from legumes or even top a salad with them or throw some into a casserole. Legumes are so good for you that you can use them to replace meat in your diet for a couple of meals each week.
Good Grains
Most people shy away from grains because a lot of them are so refined. While it is true that refined grains aren't good for you, whole grains are and should be a part of your diet. Some grains you should try include millet, rice, quinoa, oats, wheat, rye, buckwheat, and barley. Starting your day off with oatmeal is an excellent way to get more whole grains into your day right from the start.
Vegetables and Fruits
You should be getting most of your daily carbohydrate intake from fruits and vegetables. They're full of important vitamins, minerals, and fiber to give your body all it needs to work at its best. In fact, you should be eating at least five servings of vegetables and fruits every single day. Start throwing some fresh berries into your morning yogurt or smoothie and add a heaping portion of fresh vegetables to your dinner.
Take care of your body by giving it what it needs!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mesa, Ariz.