Not all carbs are bad. Learn how to find the good ones

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“Carbohydrates” - not usually a word associated with a healthy diet. Yet there is a long list of “healthy” carbs your body needs and is good for you. Carbohydrates earned a bad rep because of the simple carbs - found in table sugar, cadies and soda - that give you that quick rush of energy without satisfying your appetite. But complex carbohydrates, often referred to as “starchy” carbs, are good for your health and can be found in legumes, starchy vegetables and whole-grain foods.

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So when it comes to carbohydrates follow these recommendations:

1. Limit foods that are high in processed, refined simple sugars. Those provide calories but they have very little nutrition.

2. Get more complex carbohydrates and healthy nutrients by eating more fruits and vegetables.

3. Focus on whole-grain rice, breads and cereals, and don’t forget the legumes — beans, lentils and dried peas.

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Useful tip

We often eat bad carbs during snack time or as a treat. Next time you feel peckish, grab a banana, low sugar oat bar, orange, grapefruit or apple, or make a blueberries smoothie, as those are some of the most healthy carbs out there.

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Source: The American Heart Association

Nothing in this article should be considered medical advice. Ask your doctor if you have any questions. In a case of medical emergency call 911.