By:- Kalpana Sharma
Obesity epidemic is upon us and we are helplessly watching it grow. Carbohydrates (along with fats) are one grey area for everyone trying to eat healthy. And adding to the brouhaha is the recent study by some medics who claim that while your body can still do without cutting down on fats but it is when you severely slash down carbohydrates from your diet that you will see weight loss results. Dr Aseem Malhotra, a leading British cardiologist reiterates the fact. He says, low carbohydrate diet with healthy fats is the answer to maintaining or attaining a healthy weight.
Regardless of how much we think we know about carbs, there is always something that falls short. First up, carbohydrates are not only present in breads, pasta and rice. There are a whole lot of food items out there that have carbs. So cutting down on breads, pasta and rice alone doesn't ensure a no-carb diet.
Firstly, what exactly happens when you consume carbohydrates? You have to understand that it is your body's source of energy. When you eat carbs, the body converts most of it into glucose (sugar), which is then utilized to fuel brain and muscles cells. But there are hardly any food items that are 'only carbs'. It is such a broad category and not all carbs are the same. Broadly, there are three types of carbs - sugar, starch and fibre and it is about the type and quantity of carbs you eat that matter. We should definitely cut down sugar in our diet but a good mix of starch and fibre is the way to go.
So instead of harping about foods that are loaded with carbs, we bring you
healthy carb options. Many of them we bet you didn't know nestled carbs.
Chickpeas
If you are struggling to lose weight, chickpeas should be your go-to choice. It is low on glycemic index and also help curb your hunger. It can be taken in salads or turned into a healthy filling curry. It is also believed to lower bad cholesterol.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes have simple starches and complex carbohydrates. This is not it. It is high in fiber, beta-carotene, and much sought after vitamins. They are also considered to be great source of recovery food.
Oats
A lot of people swear by oats when it comes to fixing up a healthy breakfast. These versatile oats consist of beta-glucan super fiber and helps lower cholesterol. The best part is that they are digested slowly in the body, making you feel fuller for longer.
Banana
It is not a very popular food item among weight watchers but they are unaware of its goodness. It's the best mid meal snack and loaded with fast-acting carbohydrates. It is an amazing source of Vitamin B6, potassium, fiber and manganese. In fact, a ripe banana is also believed to prevent cancer. Not only that, it is the perfect pre and post workout snack.
Peas
Blueberries
Talk about carbohydrates present in fruits and blueberry is your most nutritious source. We all know they are rich in vitamins, essential minerals and also helps in burning fat. What's more? They are also not the post concentrated source of carbs.
Greek yogurt
Nutritionists across the globe are talking about the goodness of greek yogurt. Opt for the non-sugary greek yogurts to keep your carbohydrate content low and you will get the goodness of both protein as well as carbs.
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