More about carbohydrates
Posted on: 15/Mar/2016 9:31:51 AM
Not all carbohydrates are bad. And not all carbohydrates are equal. Choosing them wisely is the trick.
What are carbohydrates? They are a macronutrient found in many common foods. Dals and legumes, grains and pulses are rich in carbs. Added sugar or starch in commercially prepared, processed and cracked foods also contain carbohydrates. The simplest form of carbs is sugar and glucose. Starch is its complex form. An indigestible carbohydrates is fibre,
Carbs are naturally found in fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, legumes, sugars, honey and jaggery. Carbohydrates play an important role in our diet, like providing energy, protecting against diseases and weight control. They are the body’s main source of fuel. Sugars and starches found in carbs are broken down during digestion and converted into simple sugars. These are absorbed by the bloodstream. While some of this is used for activity, the excess of these sugars is converted into fat.
Whole grains, fruits and vegetables contain dietary fibres that help protect against cancer, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, digestive problems and weight problems.
The glycemic index (GI) raise the blood sugar level, according to their potential. Foods that have low GU are whole grains, legumes. vegetables, fruits, low fat dairy products and nuts and seeds. Foods with a higher GI are rice, wheat flour, potatoes and corn.
Weight loss diets restrict the consumption of foods with high GI. However, limiting these foods and combining them with low GI carbs helps in the weight loss process, while keep your stomach full.
Experts recommend that 45 to 60 percent of the total daily calories come from carbohydrates. So make sure to add them in your diet, while keeping these points in mind.
