CARBOHYDRATES

As macronutrients, carbohydrates are one of the three main ways other than protein and fats that helps our body obtain energy and calories. It is a vital component to maintain the proper body functioning. However, people tend to associate carbohydrates with white bread, rice, sweetened yogurts and juice due to its bad reputation over the years.

However, not all carbohydrates are equal. When a carb is refined, many important and beneficial nutrients can be stripped away. Take whole grain wheat as example, when refined into white flour, the starch in the middle remain but the process inevitably strips away the bran on the outside which is a source of fiber and vitamins, as well as those germ that contains vitamins, minerals, and traces of good fat.

Therefore, go for good carbs instead, to supply many of the nutrients your body needs to function properly which are those in an unrefined and natural state, with nothing removed. Sources of these healthy carbs include whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables, which are all excellent sources of fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.