Copyright 2006 Paul Costelo
To help with weight issues and for overall improved health, many
people turn to diets. In fact, government statistics show that
while about 65 percent of Americans are overweight, 38 percent
are actually doing something about it. That leaves 27% who
aren't !
And according to a recent survey by the National Health
Institute, about a third of overweight Americans who are trying
to lose weight, are doing so by eating less carbohydrates
(carbs) largely because of the huge popularity of fad diets like
Atkins Diet and the South Beach Diet.
Although there have certainly been other low-carb or low-sugar
diet plans before, and more will come out in the years ahead,
let's take a look at the basics behind many of the major plans.
And let's take a look at how they fit into the real world today.
Because while it might be great to lower the body's sugar
content and be healthier wouldn't it be great to learn how to do
that quickly ??
In the world of instant messaging, quick Internet interaction
and the already multi-faceted day-to-day hectic schedules,
dietary food budgeting, planning, preparing and shopping are
issues that can become major sources of stress and reasons for
dieting failure. Dual income families on-the-go and other
super-busy wage earners and dieters often already suffer from
more than their share of everyday stresses like fears of being
laid off, their jobs being relocated or terminated, juggling
more than one job, dependents and trying to fund and juggle
continuing education into their lives, budgets, and daily
routines.
People want and need simpler solutions. And they need simpler
dieting plans. Forget spending mega bucks on gourmet,
hard-to-find items. Forget spending hours just to prepare meals.
And forget counting, measuring, and weighing ingredients. Either
a low-carb plan fits into the real-world , or it doesn't.
So are there any differences in types of low carbs-- you bet !!
In a nutshell, there are two kinds of carbohydrates, simple and
complex. Some refer to them as bad and good carbs, fastand slow
digestion carbs and other possibly confusing lingo. Here's the
difference.
SIMPLE CARBS
Foods with simple or refined carbohydrates most often have a low
nutrient content and a high-glycemic index. They are quick to
digest and can cause blood sugar to soar then fall dramatically
within a short span of time. In order to keep the body running
more healthy and stable, health advisors recommend that these
type foods be limited.
Examples of these simple carbs are white bread, potatoes,
bananas, and sugary treats like cookies, candy, cupcakes and
cakes, and soda beverages like popular cola products.
COMPLEX CARBS
Foods with complex carbohydrates contain many nutrients and have
a low- to moderate-glycemic index. Higher fiber content in these
foods means slower digestion, which is healthier for the body.
And these foods are considered good choices by health advisors.
Examples of these complex carbs are whole grains, most fruits
and vegetables. Legumes, plants of the pea or bean family, are
also in this category.
WHICH IS BEST????
While studies like one from the University of Arkansas for
Medical Sciences in January of 2004 show that low-carb diets can
help with weight loss;the carbs need to be of the complex,
low-glycemic type.
But don't avoid simple carbs altogether !! You need a balance!
In other words a treat now and then, in moderation (and approved
per your dietary advisor or in accordance with your health
practitioner), should be fine.
As a side note, your teeth will also be healthier without the
build up of sugar decay from simple carb foods. So a healthier
smile really will mean a healthier body !!
In my next article I'll be looking at some other terms to help
explain the science and health issues behind low-carbohydrate
dietary planning solutions.
About the author:
Paul Costelo is a High School vice Principal who became
interested in healthy eating and diets when both his children
were diagnosed as suffering from food intolerances and allergies
. Paul is proud to publish the ultimate healthy French food
book. find it at :
http://www.a1frenchfoodrecipes.com
