Top Nutritional Tips, for a Stronger, Healthier, and Happier You Series
Consume Carbohydrates
Whenever you hear the word ‘carbs,’ chances are, your outlook is less than favorable. After all, just look at all those high protein/low carb diets.
What runs through your mind every time you see a plate of carbs? Breads, pastas, sugars, and starchy vegetables, right? All of things we’ve been told to stay as far away as possible from.
But surprise! Our bodies actually need carbs.
The problem isn’t carbs, it’s the type of carbs that we are consuming.
The ones we should be avoiding are found in white flours, processed sugars, and white rice.
The ones we should be consuming, however, are found in foods like oatmeal, whole grains, and brown rice. These types of carbs are called Complex Carbohydrates.
Here are some easy ways to incorporate complex carbohydrates into your daily diet.
Steel Cut Oats: Steel cut oats are better for you than regular oats because they’re not as heavily processed. The high fiber content makes them perfect candidate to eat away at bad cholesterol. Pick some up at your grocery store and have them for breakfast with a banana or avocado!
Quinoa: If you’re either allergic to gluten or just want to eliminate it from your diet, then consider adding quinoa to your list of complex carbohydrates. Not only are they high in fiber, but they have a good amount of protein, and even comes with some omega-three fatty acids. Talk about a super food!
Lentils: If you’re a vegetarian and looking for more plant-based protein, or just looking to ease up on eating so much meat, then lentils are a must. Not only are they also full of fiber, but they’re loaded with cancer-fighting polyphenols and folic acid, which helps combat heart disease. Plus, there are so many ways to enjoy this tasty legume. Just search the internet for some recipe ideas!
So, the next time you hear someone put down carbs, remind yourself-and them-about the importance of complex carbohydrates!