Which Foods Are Considered Carbs?
Carbs, or carbohydrates, provide the body with energy, and assist the body with proper organ function. The body digests the carbohydrates and turns them into sugar which provides energy.
Carbohydrates are broken into two types, simple and complex. While there are many different diets, including some that limit or eliminate carbohydrates, it is important to consume carbohydrates that are high in fiber, as those are the best choice.
-
Types
-
There are two types of carbohydrates, simple and complex.
Simple carbohydrates are sugars, such as refined white sugars (or table sugar), fruit and milk. The body processes these carbohydrates quickly.
Complex carbohydrates are starches and can be found in foods like unrefined grains (fiber). Eating complex carbohydrates helps the body feel fuller longer.
Foods
-
Carbohydrates can be found in foods from the sugar, starch and fiber groups. The carbohydrates which provide the most beneficial nutrients are whole grain breads, brown rice, vegetables, beans, fruits, sweet potatoes (or yams) and whole grain cereal.
-
Benefits
-
Eating a diet containing whole grain carbohydrates can help the body feel fuller longer. Also, since some fiber will not be broken down, it will keep the body from storing any excess as sugar or fat.
Other Types
-
Carbohydrates are also found in white bread, white rice, candy, soda, pastry and other processed foods. These carbohydrates convert to sugar rapidly in the body and do not provide additional health benefits as do the whole grains and foods that are rich in fiber.
Misconceptions
-
Many fad diets have popularized a misconception about carbohydrates stating that they are the cause of obesity. This fact is only part truth. Eating a diet in refined and over processed foods (such as white bread) will contribute to being overweight. However, foods rich in fiber can help to control weight and provide greater health benefits overall.
-
