Health and Fitness Vault: Good and Bad Carbohydrates And The Ugly Truth About Your Diet

Thursday, 13 December 2012

Good and Bad Carbohydrates And The Ugly Truth About Your Diet

The infographic differentiates between good and bad carbohydrates, which have different effects on the human body. Complex carbohydrates are good carbs that contain healthy fibre and improve the function of the digestive system. They supply minerals and vitamins that are essential for eyesight, the reproductive system, and hormonal balance. Bad carbohydrates are transformed into fat cells and cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Eating foods that contain bad carbs can lead to hypoglycemia, brain fog, overweight, and Type 2 diabetes.

Products such as navy beans, split peas, mango, and guava contain good carbohydrates. The list of foods that are high in bad carbs includes sugar-loaded beverages, candies, and white rice. The infographic offers information about the glycemic load and the glycemic index. Foods with low GI are beneficial because they cause a moderate and gradual rise in blood glucose levels. Low GI foods put less strain on the pancreas and facilitate weight loss. Foods with high GI are usually loaded with preservatives, flavourings and other chemicals. Refined, pre-packaged and processed foods have a high glycemic index value. Most alcohols are low in carbohydrates but contain empty calories. Use in moderation and avoid foods such as cornflakes, dates, and instant mashed potatoes, which have high GI.