Carbohydrates. CARBS!!!
Depending what book you read or website you visit, you will see many different opinions about eating carbohydrates and what kinds.
Ten plus years ago, a low carb diet known as the Dr. Atkins diet became popular. This is very high protein and fat diet with little to no carbs. People were eating bacon and steak and loads of cheese, and they were loosing weight! What happened when they started back up eating the way that had before, and including carbohydrates? They gained it all back plus more!
What is a CARB?
They are found in all foods except meats and oil. They are either simple or complex. Complex carbohydrates contain fiber and include whole grains, and some vegetables.
Simple carbohydrates are found in processed sugars like sodas, candy, baked goods, milk products, fruit, and fruit juices. Complex carbohydrates come from legumes (beans), starchy vegetables, and whole grains.
Getting too many carbohydrates can lead to an increase in total calories, which can someone to become overweight.
Not getting enough carbohydrates can cause a lack of calories (malnutrition), induce ketosis, or excessive intake of fats to make up the calories.
My Recommendation:
I agree that we should include whole grains (wheat, corn, rice, quinoa, etc.) into our daily carbohydrate needs. I also think the healthy balance of carbs/protein/fat is different for everyone. Somewhere between 45-60% of your calories should come from carbohydrates. Choose complex carbohydrates more often.
Below is a great recipe for tomorrow morning’s breakfast, or as a snack, or sweet treat after dinner! I even pack them in my kids’ lunches.
Whole Grain Blueberry Muffins!
www.txkidskitchen.com
