Are carbs really that bad?

I have found that it is increasingly common for people to think that carbohydrates are terrible for you. The reality is quite different…

For the majority of us, a healthy daily diet should consist of meals that are nutritionally balanced. A nutritionally balanced meal is comprised of the 4 main food groups: Protein, fats, vegetables and yes, carbohydrates!

In today's post, I will be discussing carbohydrates (or "Carbs", as they are more commonly known) and how they contribute to a healthy and balanced daily diet. In addition, I will be sharing an easy and delicious complex carb recipe.

Carbohydrates provide the body with readily available energy. Contrary to popular belief this group is essential. It is the type of carbohydrate, complex or simple, that determines if it is beneficial to us.

Simple carbohydrates, for example; white flour, sugars (including brown sugar, agave syrup), white bread etc., are digested at a fast rate resulting in sharp, high levels of sugar in the blood. This state is especially dangerous for people with diabetes, insulin resistance and obesity. These conditions mean that the body's ability to utilize and metabolize sugar is compromised and over time can become life-threatening to some.

Complex carbohydrates, for example; brown rice, bulgur wheat, whole wheat flour, whole wheat pasta, whole wheat bread etc., are rich in fiber (a part of the starch which is very difficult for our body to break down) and are richer in minerals and vitamins.

Complex carbohydrates are digested at a slower rate, resulting in a slower and more constant release of sugar into the blood. The fiber in these carbohydrates contribute to several beneficial effects including earlier and prolonged satiety and better and more frequent bowel movements. For us at Psynergy, this is an especially important point considering that many psychiatric medications have adverse effects, such as increased appetite, weight gain, insulin sensitivity and constipation. Legumes are also an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and amino acids (the body's building blocks).

So, you see, carbohydrates are actually not entirely terrible. You just have to choose the right type!

Here is a fantastic recipe with complex carbs for you to enjoy.

Tomato Bulgur Wheat
A perfect side to fish, chicken and meat.

serves 4

Ingredients:

2 tbsp Olive oil

1 large onion, diced

1 red pepper, diced

4 tbsp tomato purée

Sea salt & ground black pepper

1 cup bulgur wheat

2 cups water

Method:

1. In a pot that has a fitted lid, heat the olive oil.

2. Add the peppers and the onion to the pot, sauté till soft.

3. Add the tomato purée, the bulgur wheat, salt, pepper and lastly the water.

4. Bring to boil, then cover and lower the heat to low and simmer for about 20min. Keep covered while cooking, and if the bulgur wheat is not fully cooked, add more water and continue cooking until soft.