Keep the Right Carbs in Your Diet
By Tom Herrin
A lot of times, we all tend to follow whatever is popular. It may be with clothing, hairstyles, or diet. We may actually think that if it is good enough for someone else, we should do it, too. Several of the newer diets have been targeting cutting carbs severely while forcing the body to burn more fat as an energy source. Some of the others have really emphasized eating meat. Carbs are not all bad, but we need to understand their place in order to use them well in a diet. For the most part, they are divided into two kinds, simple and complex.
We May Need to Limit Simple Carbs
It is pretty easy to overdo it when it comes to simple carbs. Many of us drink sugary drinks and eat a lot of foods that are also in that category. The simple carbs are easy to convert to energy but don't have a lot of lasting power. They are often considered to be a source of quick energy, and it may be the case at times, but a 2019 study suggested that the feeling may be due to an energy low that occurred a while after consuming simple carbs. In other words, having a sugary soda may not actually give the lift you are seeking.
What Is So Complex About Other Carbs?
The carbs that are generally considered to be the most essential for meeting our needs for everyday activities are referred to as complex. This is mostly because the process of breaking them down in our bodies is a little more involved. As a result, it takes longer. The really good thing is that this can provide sustained energy for a longer period of time. Many of these are foods that are traditionally thought of as what we have always been told to eat. Green and yellow vegetables are really good for us, though we may want to be careful with those that are considered as starches. For those prone to diabetes, they may jockey with blood sugar.
Are You a Juice Drinker?
Many of us drink some kind of juice at breakfast so that we can take in some good vitamins and minerals along with a few other beneficial things. This may be good, or it may not be so good. Some juices have a high sugar content, so we need to check labels. If we need to, we may be better off eating a piece of whole fruit instead. This may also give us a little more fiber.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in National City, Calif.