Carbohydrates. Simple or Complex?

"Calories in VS. calories out". We’ve all heard this phrase before. And, "Eat less and exercise more".

As a general rule and concept, that’s decent advice. Unfortunately, all calories aren’t created equally, and everybody responds differently to the intake of "calorie sources'.

There are three main sources of calories; these are called macro-nutrient groups and they include protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Each of these nutrient groups plays an important role in our bodies.

Fuel for Living (Carbohydrates):

Carbohydrates ("Carbs") are an incredibly important nutrient source for our bodies. For starters, they’re the body’s primary source of energy. Without them, most people feel sluggish and irritable. They’re also known as “brain food” because they provide energy to the brain, allowing us to think clearly and quickly.

----> Despite advice from some diet fads, carbs shouldn’t be removed from the diet when trying to lose weight!! Instead try reducing or even eliminating the foods that contain simple sugars from your diet.

Types of Carbs can be:

** simple (sugar, candy, crackers, pastries, pies, fries, soda, white pasta, refined white bread,...etc.)

* You should aim to avoid simple carbs unless they’re paired with a fiber source, as in fruits. Without the fiber source, simple carbs cause insulin spikes which are bad for weight loss and your general health.

** complex (vegetables, whole grains, oats, whole wheat breads and pastas, brown rice, beans, lentils,..etc.)

* Complex carbs are absorbed more slowly in the body and provide sustained energy!!