| Low Carb
Foods: An Introduction
The term low carb was coined in 1992 when the USDA
recommended Americans to include six servings of grains
and starches in their daily diet. But low carb diets
dates back to 1864. There was a 'letter of corpulence',
a pamphlet written by William Banting which talked about
a low carb diet. It gave way to other low carb diets
later of which the most popular was Atkins.
People also accepted the Scarsdale
diet. In 1970's most people tried these diets to
escape the haunting problems related to obesity.
Scarsdale had a 14-day meal plan where as Atkins diet
was an unlimited calorie intake diet in the form of
fat and proteins with limited carbs.
Recent studies conducted in America by National Health
Institute say one third of Americans trying to lose
weight are following the low carb diet.
Atkins diet and South
Beach diet are very popular.
People gradually realized the importance of weight
loss and health benefits. Too much of refined carbohydrates
leads to overproduction of insulin. It results in fat
storage. And this fat gets prominent around the middle.
So, insulin produces a negative effect on our system.
And in this fast-paced world, we do have a solution
to this growing problem related to obesity or weight
gain.
Today people need simple solutions. You don't want
to spend too much time in the kitchen preparing special
diet meals or shop for things that are too difficult
to find. The low carb plan fits the new age perfectly.
There are two kinds of carbohydrates, simple and complex.
Many refer to them as good and bad carbs.
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.
The right pick
While studies like one from the University of Arkansas
for Medical Sciences in 2004 show that low-carb diets
can help with weight loss, the carbs need to be of the
complex, low-glycemic type.
However, it is not necessary to avoid the simple carbs
fully. A treat now and then, in moderation 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 let healthy smiles shine with your healthy body.
About the Author
Chris Read, An associated editor to Hateweight.com.
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