The right carbs in the right amounts provide the fuel and energy we all need.
Poor carbohydrates; they’re pretty much the pariah of the health food world. Countless diets have cruelly ejected this food group from your meals, blaming it for all sorts of health issues. Carbs have a bad rap, but the reality is that we can’t survive without them. They provide fuel and energy for our bodies; the problem comes from eating too many carbs, or the wrong kind. The Huffington Post has a handy list of which carbs you should be eating to keep your body in top condition.
Beans
When it comes to good carbs, it’s hard to go wrong with beans. Virtually any type comes packed to bursting with good fiber and tons of vitamins. They’re also low in sugar (a common concern for those consuming carbs), and can be thrown into countless recipes. Best of all, most come with a punch of protein that helps control hunger and manage weight.
Squash
Squash are high in dietary fiber and low in sugar, but these savory plants have an additional bonus: many kinds are a great source of antioxidants (particularly butternut squash). You can whip up a delicious, healthy, and filling soup from many types of squash; the perfect dinner for a cold fall night.
Oatmeal
This breakfast food can get a bad rap from all those sugary toppings we pile on it, but this is one of the best carbs for your health. Oatmeal has been shown to lower cholesterol, improve heart health, and keep your weight under control. Still craving some sweetness in your breakfast? Toss on some fresh fruit instead of sugary toppings.
Popcorn
One of our favorite carbs proves to be one of the healthiest. Popcorn is a whole grain treat that’s high in fiber and antioxidants. That doesn’t mean you should drown this salty snack in movie theater butter; go for the air-popped, lightly flavored variety for a low-calorie, healthy treat.
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