Simple carbs, or sugars, can be found in food naturally or in refined and processed foods. These foods are processed through our bodies quickly. Some examples are fruits, candy, milk, and milk products.
Complex carbs, or starches, are found in grain products. Refined or processed products, such as white rice or white bread, remove important nutrients. Unrefined grains are rich in fiber and other nutrients.
Once eaten, carbs are broken down into simple sugars and absorbed into the bloodstream. The pancreas then releases insulin. The insulin helps to move the sugar from the blood to the cells to be used as energy. The process happens quicker with simple carbohydrates causing hunger to occur quicker. Eating complex carbohydrates will make energy last longer.
Carbohydrates provide your body with energy. As described earlier, once carbohydrates are broken down they are moved from the blood and into cells to be used as energy. Without energy movement would not be possible.
Evidence has shown that carbohydrates may help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases (Mayo Clinic). Fiber may protect against obesity and type 2 diabetes (Mayo Clinic). Fiber is also an important part of digestive health.
Weight Control- A diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help you to feel fuller longer. Low-carb diets have not shown any evidence of weight loss over any period of time.
Vegetables
-broccoli
-spinach
-carrots
-celery
-asparagus
Fruits
-berries
-grapefruit
-oranges
-banana
-pears
Whole Grains
-barley
-corn
-oats
-rice
-wheat
Hypoglycemia