Why good carbs are still so essential
POTATOES, bread, and pasta are usually the first to go when we want to drop a few kilograms.
But eliminating carbs isn’t as healthy as you may think. In fact, cutting them completely from your diet can lead to everything from a slower metabolism to decreased brain functioning, insomnia, headaches, muscle cramps and even sweaty feet.
The important thing is to substitute bad carbs with good carbs. Good carbs are whole grains and grain products that are packed with nutrients, such as buckwheat, quinoa, brown rice, rye bread and wholegrain pasta. Bad carbs such as white rice, flour, bread and pasta are processed and therefore contain very few nutrients. These are the culprits that give carbs such a bad rap.
Twila Cannell of The Grainery, a local company supplying healthy grains, shares seven reasons why incorporating good carbs into your diet is actually good for you.
Carbs make you happy
Eating carbohydrates triggers your brain to produce serotonin, or the “happy” hormone. This not only elevates your mood but helps with appetite control and sleep cycles.
Help you lose stomach fat
A diet high in both insoluble and soluble fibre can prevent weight gain and even aid weight loss. Certain carbohydrates, such as black and brown rice, contain both forms of fibre and eating these can help you lose weight, decrease your stomach fat and beat those feelings of sluggishness. Essential for good heart health
It’s well-known that eating more soluble fibre decreases your LDL, or “bad” cholesterol levels. Carbohydrates such as oats, bulgur wheat, buckwheat, quinoa and brown rice are extremely high in fibre and are therefore a great option if you’re struggling with high cholesterol.
Boost your energy
If you’ve ever been told to carbo load for a race or workout, you’ll know carbs are key to boosting your energy.
Help you think better
Just like your body, your brain needs carbs for energy, so lowering your carb intake can affect your brainpower.
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Whole grains in general are rich in B vitamins, selenium, potassium, magnesium, folic acid and iron. .
Keep you full and energised
Complex carbohydrates stabilise your blood sugar levels, which means you feel full for longer and have more stable energy levels. This is particularly good news for diabetics.