Cut out carbs! Carbs will make you fat! If you want to lose weight, don’t eat carbs!
Sound familiar?
This dieting rule has been around forever and I’ve heard it many times from my clients. Truth be told, carbohydrate is a macronutrient that we cannot live without. In fact, carbs are vital for optimal health.
- Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. You need to eat them every day to fuel not only your muscles – your brain, digestive system, and nerves need carbs too.
- Complex carbohydrates contain dietary fiber which keeps your digestive tract running smoothly and can promote weight loss by keeping you feeling satisfied between meals.
- Eating carbs can boost your mood by increasing the production of serotonin (the feel good chemical) in your brain.
- Carbs taste good and satisfying foods are an important part of a healthy balanced diet.
It’s time to stop demonizing carbohydrate foods – in particular, grains.
Earlier this month, I lead a grocery store tour at my local Whole Foods that focused on healthy whole grains. We met with Luis at the bulk bin section who shared many interesting facts about grains. I was surprised to learn that barley is the top selling grain from the bulk bins at Whole Foods.
The tour participants learned how to shop for the healthiest grains and had an opportunity to taste farro and bulgur. Like most of my clients, they were impressed with the nice flavor and texture.
When eaten as part of a balanced diet, whole grains will not cause you to gain weight or prevent you from losing. Don’t be afraid to eat them. They are a good source of many nutrients, including fiber, B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and folate) and minerals (iron, magnesium and selenium).
These whole grain salads would make a perfect side dish for your Easter dinner menu:
Farro Apple Pecan Salad, Broccoli Tabbouleh, and Golden Beet and Barley Salad
Enjoy!
Lorraine
P.S.
Are you ready to get off the diet roller coaster and GET HEALTHY? I’d love to hear from you. Let’s talk about how we can work together so you can achieve your personal best weight and maintain it with ease. NO MORE DIETING.
Image Credit: https://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-riff-golden-beet-and-ba-88567
