Contributed by Jennifer Peachey

Every few years there is a new trend in diet books. We are told to eat more protein, consume a low fat diet, avoid carbohydrates, or eat only carbohydrates. The changes mean more money for the book sellers and prey on those looking for a fast and simple solution. The solution, however, usually involves avoiding the simple. Simple carbohydrates, that is!

We know that protein is essential to life and that we need carbohydrates. The right kind of carbohydrate, simple or complex, is vitally important. Both provide energy to the body, and excess of either will be stored in the liver or as fat.

Complex carbos are made up of a long chain of saccharide units. These are found in foods such as whole grains, vegetables, and legumes. Broken down slowly, these carbos provide a steady flow of energy to the body. They also aid in the digestion and absorption of other foods, including protein and fat. The fibre in these foods (called unavailable carbohydrates) prevents constipation, reduces the risk of cancer, and regulates cholesterol levels.

Simple carbos are short chains of saccharide units. The body very quickly converts them to glucose that enters the bloodstream to be picked up by the cells for energy. Often called empty calories, sugary foods are not, in fact, inferior for energy production. They are, however, empty of vitamins, minerals, fibre, and protein. Simple carbos include sucrose (table sugar), lactose (milk sugar), and fructose (fruit sugar). Found in foods such as cakes, chocolate, candies, and soda, simple carbos increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Most experts suggest that we eat a diet with 60 to 70% carbohydrates. The complex carbos should make up the bulk of this. We can still consume simple carbos like the fructose found in fruit. Fruit contains fibre, vitamins, minerals, and live enzymes that are important for good health. You still need your 2 to 4 servings of fruit a day, 3 to 5 servings of vegetables, and 6 to 11 servings of those complex carbohydrates or breads and grains. The diet fads may come and go, but your body's need for steady, continuous energy does not. Avoid the simple, quick energy fix, and listen to the best expert, your body!

Ingredients

n/a

Instructions

n/a

Read more recipes