Complex Carbs vs. Simple Carbs

Carbs are either your best friend or your worst enemy. There are two different types of carbs that can affect you differently: complex carbs and simple carbs.

Complex carbs (“Good” carbs)

• Are beneficial from the moment you wake up until your post-workout.
• Are high in fiber helping you to feel fuller longer.
• Are high in vitamins and minerals.
• Give you sustained energy.
• Examples:

           - Whole grain pastas and breads

           - Brown rice

           - Sweet potatoes

           - Oats

           - Green vegetables

           - Fruits

Simple carbs (“Bad” carbs)

• Are digested quickly and don’t contain vitamins or minerals that are used by the body. If unused, they are often stored as fat.
• Are nutrient-stripped to make them inexpensive.
• Are often converted to fat.
• Make you feel tired due to fluctuations in blood sugars.
• Contain added sugars to make them more flavorful to consumers.
• Examples:

            - Treats and candy

            - Refined/white breads

            - Sodas, artificial juices, and high-sugar drinks

            - Any processed foods