Food is an effective way for you to harness your health and take control of you mood, energy levels, and mental clarity.
On average, we make more than 200 food choices every day. Many of these occur in our mind.
Each choice is a step closer to better health and living. Food choices effect:
- All day energy levels
- May help reduce your risk for certain diseases
- May help you live longer
The best part is this does not require a complete makeover of your pantry. The best way to achieve permanent change is small baby steps.
Choose Carbs Wisely
Carbs serve as fuel when changed into glucose (blood sugar)
Feeds cells and organs, most importantly your brain.
A good goal is to get half total calories from carbohydrates.
Find Carbs In:
Pasta
Sugar
Vegetables
Avoid these Carbs:
Corn syrup
Sugar
These have no nutritional value. They only offer empty calories.
The best way to know if the carb is worth eating… Is it rich in fiber?
Fiber is the part of the plant that can not be digested.
Fiber offers many benefits for your body.
- Helps you feel full longer
- May prevent weight gain
- Aids digestive health
- May help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
Excellent sources of Whole Carbs
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Legumes, beans, and peas
- Whole Grains
Daily Goal for Carbs is 20-35 grams from whole foods like fruits and vegetables.
Tips for adding more fiber to your diet
- Choose whole grain bread and pasta
- Ezekial bread
- zucchini pasta (spiralized)
- Brown rice in place of white rice
- Choose oat and whole grain cereals
- Eat a salad daily, or opt for a green smoothie.
Carbs play a key role in overall health. Your body needs whole carbs daily and will not operate at the fullest potential when you eliminate carbs from your daily diet. For a great list of carb rich foods see this post from healthyeater.com.
