Do Carbs Confuse You?
By Tom Herrin
When people talk about dieting these days, it seems there is quite a bit of discussion about carbs. Diets seem to run in trends, and carbs are a pretty significant concern today. It is true that managing carb intake can make a big difference in our overall health and restricting has been known to be a good way to lose weight. Some diets are focused on forcing the body to burn fat in place of carbs for energy. These may work for some, but the idea of eliminating carbs completely can be a little unsettling. Gaining a better understanding of the types of carbs, and what they do, may help us to make better decisions.
What Is Meant by Simple?
When it comes to carbs, the word simple means that it is something that can be turned into sugar fast. In fact, they may be almost purely sugar. At one time, some of us felt that consuming simple carbs could give us a burst of energy that we could use fast. A recent study found that what seemed like a burst of energy may have been influenced by a low that occurred a short time afterward. Either way, simple carbs are not the best for sustained energy and may not have much lasting power.
We Need Some Complex Carbs
Anytime we design a meal, it should include some kinds of complex carbs. We still need to be careful which ones we include as some of us may need to avoid those that are considered to be high in starch. This is where the need for more foods such as green and yellow vegetables can come in. Complex carbs will break down into something that can provide energy. The right kinds will last for much of the day. Pre-game meals for many athletes focus on having some good complex carbs so that they will have energy as the game progresses.
You May Want to Pick Whole Fruits Instead of Juices
While many of us have some kind of juice with breakfast each day, we may be loading up on sugars and excess calories. Choosing a piece of fruit instead can still allow us to take in some good nutrients, and maybe more fiber, while avoiding so many sugars. Putting together good meals is not too hard, but it helps to have a goal and objective in mind.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Edmond, Okla.