Carbohydrates: Good vs. Bad

Carbohydrates are our main source of fuel, especially for our brains. Completely eliminating them from your diet isn't a very good idea. Simple carbs such as soda, candy and other snacks that provide our body with no vitamins and minerals, just pure energy are known as empty calories. Too many of these can lead to obesity and diabetes.

On the other hand, complex carbs provide us with an abundance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Some examples of foods that contain complex carbs are 100% whole wheat breads, cereals made from 100% whole wheats, fresh fruits and vegetables.

A major source of these good carbs are whole wheats. The more a food is processed the more nutrients are taken out of the food. When white bread is made, it is processed thereby removing nutrients. Some vitamins and minerals are added back into the flour but most of the fiber is not. Fiber has been shown to protect against colon cancer and lower cholesterol levels, so it is very important in your diet. A major source of fiber, vitamins and minerals are fruits, vegetables and whole wheats.