People frequently ask me about carbohydrates (carbs).  Mostly they ask if they need to eat any at all, or at least if they can cut down as much as possible.  My answer?  Absolutely not!  Carbs, which turn into glucose (sugar) in your blood stream are your cells’ main fuel source and the preferred source of fuel for your brain.  Lack of the appropriate type and amount of carbs can cause your body to break down your muscles into proteins, which can then be turned into glucose and used for fuel.  Your heart is a muscle.  Do you want your heart to be eaten away by a lack of carbs in your diet?  I didn’t think so!

The important thing to remember about carbs is which of them are considered appropriate choices and which are inappropriate choices.  All “white carbs”, for example, white bread, white pasta, white rice, probably could and should be eliminated from your diet as much as possible.  Whole grain carbs, for example, whole grain breads, whole grain cereals, wheat pastas, brown rice, oatmeal, and fruits should be added to your diet as much as possible.

The importance of the whole grain foods and fruit is that they contain fiber.  “White carbs” have no fiber.  Fiber is essential for our bodies to function properly.   The fiber helps slow down the digestion of sugar and aids in balancing our blood sugar – thus keeping us sated longer.  Keep up the good work, ladies and gents.  We are all so proud of you!