Time and again we’ve heard the old adage that carbs should be avoided at all costs – especially if we want to lose weight. We’ve been told that cutting out carbohydrates from our diets completely will help us achieve the body we want, reducing the risk of weight gain.
Unfortunately, this just isn’t true. In order for our bodies and brains to work to their fullest capacity, eating carbohydrates is a must – especially if we exercise regularly. Carbohydrates give us the energy to push through the toughest workouts and the most stressful deadlines at work.
Of course, not all carbohydrates are good for us and not all are bad. Today, Evolve Daily sets the record straight and reveals 8 Carbs That Are Actually Good For You:
1) Bananas
Although bananas are known to contain more carbs per bite compared to other fruits, there’s no reason why you should take them out of your diet completely. Not only are they rich in potassium, they’re also rich in vitamin B6 and fiber as well. In fact, studies show that eating bananas after a workout is more beneficial than drinking an isotonic sports drink. Bananas provide you with antioxidants, nutrients and natural sugars you wouldn’t get from a sports drink.
2) Beans
Sure, they may be known as the “musical fruit”, but there’s no denying that they’re great for you. Naturally low in fat, rich in antioxidants and minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, selenium, and vitamin B, they’re probably the best carbs you can eat! They’re also high in fiber, which helps regulate your digestive system.
3) Oatmeal
Easy to prepare and delightfully satisfying, knowing that oatmeal is a healthy carb could be quite a relief. However, the type of oatmeal you choose could greatly affect your diet. For instance, instant and flavored oatmeal contain more carbohydrates because of the added sugar they contain. Opt for steel cut or rolled oats instead, and refrain from adding sugar as much as possible. Having oatmeal for breakfast will leave you satiated for longer, compared to other carbs.
4) Sweet Potatoes
You can’t compare sweet potatoes with regular potatoes. Sweet potatoes are known to contain twice as much fiber as regular potatoes, which give them a “slow-burning” quality. This means that their caloric energy is used more slowly and efficiently, keeping you full longer – and less inclined to eat. They also contain vitamin A, C, B6, potassium, riboflavin, copper, and folic acid.
5) Green Peas
High in starch, green peas are a complex carbohydrate. Filled with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients, green peas are also rich in zinc. Zinc not only protects the body’s immune system, it also helps satiate one’s appetite by increasing levels of leptin, a hormone that signals your brain when your stomach feels like it’s had enough.
6) Whole-Wheat Pasta
The health benefits of whole-wheat pasta definitely trumps regular white pasta. Whole-wheat pasta still contains 3 parts of the grain – the bran, the germ, and the endosperm, which keeps it nutritionally superior to regular pasta. Vitamin E, B, antioxidants, fiber, protein and healthy fats – these are just some of the benefits one gets from eating whole-wheat pasta. Don’t forget, the same applies for bread!
7) Squash
With fewer calories per serving than sweet potatoes, the squash is possibly one of the friendliest carbs there is. Low in sodium and rich in vitamin C, squash is also filled with calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamins B6 and E. Squash is also relatively inexpensive and easy to prepare.
8) Quinoa
We’re sure you’ve heard a lot of hype about quinoa, the latest superfood that’s taken the clean eating crowd by storm. A perfect substitute for white rice, the earthy, nutty quality of quinoa has everyone raving about it. Rich in protein, manganese, fiber and niacin, quinoa is your best bet if you’re craving for a rice meal.
Although these diet-friendly carbs are considerably better for you compared to other carbs, make sure you still control your portions. After all, they could still increase your blood sugar level if you aren’t careful.
