At FoodandFitnessPro, we believe carbohydrates are treated unfairly by the fitness community. You never have to look too hard to find the newest low-carb diet that guarantees to help with weight loss. However, the importance of carbohydrates cannot be overlooked. The trick is being able to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy ones. With the help of our nutritionist on Long Island, you can learn the truth about consuming carbs, and whether simple or complex ones are better for you.
What Are Simple Carbohydrates?
Simple carbs consist strictly of sugars. They are easily digested, and when not used for energy right away, get stored away in the body for later use. That is why eating large amounts of food with simple sugars can attribute to weight gain. Foods that fall into this category include:
- Baked treats
- Packaged cookies
- Soda
- Fruit juice concentrate
- Sugary breakfast cereal
What Are Complex Carbohydrates?
Complex carbs hold more nutritional value than simple ones. Unlike simple carbs, complex carbs are made up of fibers and starch. They digest more slowly than simple carbs, making you feel full for longer when consuming them. This fact makes consuming complex carbs a viable option to help manage your weight. Examples of complex carbs our nutritionist on Long Island would recommend you should increase your intake of include:
- Whole grains
- Berries
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Leafy greens
- Beans
Which Is Better?
At FoodandFitnessPro, our nutritionist on Long Island recommends focusing on a healthy balance between the two. While eating simple carbs that have been artificially added to food products can be detrimental to your health, consuming the ones that are found naturally in nature offer little to no risks. That is because foods that naturally contain simple carbohydrates also contain other nutrients the body needs. The same is true for complex carbs. Consuming unprocessed, naturally occurring complex carbs will allow your body to intake all the nutrients it needs. When it comes to which is better between simple or complex, the answer is that when they are both natural, there are benefits to be had from each.
Benefits Of Each
Both simple and complex carbohydrates offer the body the energy it needs to survive. When you’re looking for a quick release of energy, simple carbohydrates are the way to go. Complex carbohydrates offer a longer-lasting, gradual release of energy. However, there are more benefits to be had. Since complex carbs can be rich in fiber, consuming them will help with digestion and bowel regularity. They can also help combat the development of type-2 diabetes.
Contact Our Nutritionist on Long Island
When you’re looking to start a new diet, remember that neither simple or complex carbs are inherently bad. At FoodandFitnessPro, our nutritionist on Long Island will help you determine the right types and amounts of carbohydrates you need to consume to stay healthy. By contacting us today, you can receive more valuable information on simple and complex carbs, and work to create a diet that has a healthy balance of both!
