Carbohydrates and whole grains

Question
George,

Recently I have seen a number of newspaper articles that say it is heart-healthy to increase whole grains in your diet and to reduce carbohydrates. I am confused because a whole grain, like cereal or slice of bread, is a carbohydrate. Do you know ehat that advice really means?  Or is it a mistake?  

Thanks.

Harold Miller

Answer
Hello Harold!

  Thank you for your nutrition question.  You are correct that bread is also a carbohydrate food.  The newspaper probably means to say that we should reduce our intake of certain types of carbohydrate foods which are not beneficial to our health such as sodas, chips, candy, and other high sugar foods.
   There are actually 2 types of carbohydrates called complex and simple. Complex carbohydrates include whole grains, bread, rice,pasta, fruit and vegetables. These are a healthier form of carbohydrates that are good sources of energy. While simple carbohydrates are your high fat/sugar foods. These we would avoid because they are full of empty calories.

For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis at www.authorhouse.com or your favorite bookstore.

-George Rapitis, Bsc. Nutritionist
www.juiceblend.com  

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