February Fit Food Tip

Carbohydrates are one of your body’s main sources of energy and about half of your daily calories should come from them. They’re the comfort foods we crave when we’re feeling down or stressed: pasta, fries, white bread, cookies are examples.

But these simple or refined carbohydrates cause rapid spikes in blood sugar with ups and downs in mood and energy, and a build-up of fat, especially around your waistline.

The key is to choose the right carbs. Complex carbs such as vegetables, whole grains, and naturally sweet fruit digest slower, resulting in stable blood sugar and less fat accumulation. You’ll not only feel healthier and more energetic, you could also shed a few pounds.

Complex or ‘good’ carbs include whole wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal, spinach, tomatoes, beans, nuts and whole fruit. This message is brought to you by the Warm Springs Diabetes Program.