It seems carbs cutting has become the latest diet fad and everyone seems to be jumping on the band wagon. I'm no RD, but I do have a nutrition minor and as such have had the opportunity to hear the perspectives of numerous Registered Dietitians on carbs. Here's what I have learned over the years:
Carbs are considered the primary fuel source. They are the ultimate fuel for your brain and body and are essential to a well-balanced diet.
Carbs are found in many food sources including nutritious foods and "discretionary" foods alike.
Most fruits and vegetables are composed primarily of carbs. A good goal to shoot for is to make half of your diet veggies and fruits, so we like carbs!
Carbs are also found in just about every food out there except meats.
There are tricks to picking wheat or other grain products though to ensure you are getting good carbs. Choose "whole grain," "100% whole wheat," or all-natural grains with lots of fiber and no additives.
Excellent choices include brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, and 100% whole wheat pasta, and 100% whole wheat bread and tortillas with 5 ingredients or less.
**People with gluten allergies can have brown rice, quinoa and some other grain products, but should be careful when choosing bread, pastas, tortillas, and oatmeal. Recent reports are finding that it is becoming increasingly common to self-diagnose gluten allergies without any medical basis. Make sure you see a MD BEFORE cutting gluten out of your diet because you might be cutting out essential B vitamins, fiber, and essential minerals.
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