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We’ve been programmed to think that all carbs are bad when we’re trying to lose weight and foods like pasta, bread, and grains are completely off limits. Following low-carb diets are the most common method to losing fat, but that’s not the only way to shed pounds.
Many nutritionists boast the long list of benefits that eating healthy carbs has for people on a diet. Processed carbs are bad, but there are “good carbs” that can actually help you lose weight.
Good carbs, also known as slow carbs, are rich in fiber and help provide you with long-lasting energy without causing spikes in your blood sugar or insulin levels. The fiber will also keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals so you’re less likely to snack.
Here are 5 healthy carbs you can still eat while on a diet:
1. Nuts
Dr. Josh Axe recommends eating carbs that are nutrient-rich like nuts and seeds. Snacking on these tasty bites will get your body the vitamins and minerals it needs, without any artificial ingredients.
2. Quinoa
Many people know of quinoa as a superfood, but did you know it’s a starchy carbohydrate? “It’s best to focus on fresh, minimally processed foods that have their carbohydrates encased in cellular compartments, which will not only have a lower carbohydrate density but will also likely be accompanied by lots of beneficial micronutrients," said Dr. Joseph Mercola.
3. Ezekiel Bread
Yes, you can still have bread while you’re trying to lose weight--just not white bread. Dr. Eric Berg says that Ezekiel bread is made from sprouted grains, making it healthy for you. "Unlike heavily processed breads and pastas that sit on grocery store shelves for months at a time without going bad, Ezekiel bread is fresh and preservative free which is nothing short of amazing for your diet and weight loss journey.”
4. Sweet Potatoes
“These slow carbs are versatile, naturally sweet and our bodies digest them slowly,” said Andrea Wise, a Chicago-based nutrition coach. Sweet potatoes are a great alternative for anyone who loves the starchiness of potatoes but looking to cut back on calories.
5. Lentils & Beans
Lentils are tiny legumes that are great sources of plant-based protein and fiber. “They won't elevate your blood sugar so you'll have sustained energy without the spike and crash,” says Andrea Wise. The same goes for beans like black beans and chickpeas. Beans are protein-packed and fiber-rich which accelerate weight loss.
