Last week, we got into the nitty gritty of simple carbohydrates. My hope is that instead of fearing those foods you now know how to better add them to your diet. This week we switch gears and talk about complex carbohydrates.
Recall our list from a few weeks ago:
- Whole grains
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Potatoes
Here is where you’ll find a plethora of vitamins and minerals as well as fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals.
Key thing to remember: these foods are still broken down into the same particles as simple carbohydrates. That’s why they’re referred to as carbohydrates and not something completely different.
Typically, though you get more “bang for your buck” with complex carbs, or volume that is. Think 100 calories of your favorite ice cream versus 100 calories of any vegetable.
The form of carbohydrate in the ice cream is meant to be a quick source of energy, providing enough calories in a small amount to raise blood sugar levels, like we discussed last week. The carbs in the complex form are designed to sustain and carry us through a few hours of your normal day.
Okay, so let’s back up a bit, if simple and complex carbs eventually turn into the same thing what does it matter if were eating 300 calories of white rice or 300 calories of brown rice?? They’re the same amount of calories so the same amount of energy and would effect our body in the same ways, right?
Sure, calorically they might be the same, but the brown rice has the fiber to keep you full and regular. Brown rice has the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that have been stripped from the white rice during processing. Yes, food and calories are important but our bodies are only going to work for us if we are getting the other things we need as well. And that includes vitamins and minerals.
And yeah, you can take a daily vitamin, but food first is always the best way to go. I promise you’ll feel better getting it from food. You’ll also feel better knowing you made the right choice for your body by going for a loaf of whole grain bread and some fruit, over the microwave pizza and chips.
There’s a reason for the saying “Eat the rainbow!” (And I’m not talking about Skittles – well maybe I am a little) Each fruit and vegetable you eat gives you different vitamins and minerals while still nourishing you with carbohydrates and energy.
Variety is key, there are fruits and vegetables out there I’m sure I haven’t even heard about. There are way more grains out there than rice and pasta. I challenge you to try one complex carb that you never have before. Eating only gets boring if you let it.
Have a great week y’all. I’m always curious to know what other people are doing or eating so if you discover or taste something awesome let me know!
