Carbohydrates have gotten a bad rap for years. In the media you tend to only hear the bad about carbs…how they will add to your love handles or how they will curse you with cellulite or cause your energy to crash in the middle of your day!

And we’re happy to tell you that they’re not all bad! Yes, as registered dietitians we’re telling you that carbs can actually be great! In fact, carbohydrates give your body ENERGY! But it’s all about choosing the best carbohydrates and controlling the portion sizes if you want To reap the benefits of carbohydrates.

Go for whole grains– an excellent source of magnesium, which helps to keep your energy levels high and fight off fatigue. Phytochemicals are disease-fighting chemicals found in whole grain products that lower the risk of chronic diseases.

The carbohydrates that spell trouble and that have given all carbs a bad name are refined grains like white rice or white bread, cookies, pastries, candy, soda and fruit juices. All of these carbohydrates are responsible for the bad reputations- and rightly so! These carbs drain your energy and put your health at serious risk.

Healthy and delicious carbohydrate choices that we recommend are whole grain products (such as whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, and quinoa), raw and fresh fruits, raw and lightly steamed vegetables, and nuts and seeds. Choosing these carbs over the unhealthy ones will help you realize that this is one less battle you need in your life; there’s no need to run and hide from carb cravings!

Have you found a way to eat carbs and get your ENERGY on and get lean?