"Are You A Good Carb, Or A Bad Carb?"

From "The October 2006, MindBodySpiritCentral.com Free E-Newsletter." by Keith A. Shaw

Carbohydrates... You would think that from the ads on T.V., radio and billboards that these critical nutrients were poison.

The truth is - you can not burn fat, think clearly or maintain a high energy level without them. And, for those of you who are starting on an exercise program, as well as those of you who are dedicated fitness fans, you NEED energy from carbohydrates to get the most out of your program.

A healthy, balanced nutritional plan for an individual with an active life style should consist of approximately 55% complex carbohydrates, 30% fat and 15% proteins. The problem is, is that most people get most of their carbs from processed foods containing bleached white flour and sugars such as corn syrup.

Many popular diets (or as I pronounce the word "DIE-ettes" - more on this to come) would have you believe that you should get minimal carbohydrates (10% or less) with 45% (or more) protein and 45% (or more) fats! And your body metabolizes very little protein for energy!

People who embark on these "DIE-ettes" (only fats and proteins) put themselves at great risk by subjecting their bodies to a state called "ketosis". So what is "ketosis"? Ketosis is an abnormal condition caused by the incomplete breakdown of proteins into Ketones (which are related to Acetone, the main ingredient in nail-polish remover). Ketones are acid-like molecules that can cause death!

So how can you build better health, have more energy and still burn fat when eating carbohydrates?

One way is to eat whole grains, especially for the most important meal of the day - breakfast. As cliché as it sounds, it is absolutely true. Here are some of the recommendations that you can easily find at any health food store or stores such as Whole Foods.

And these grains are great for those on wheat and gluten free nutrition programs.

Of course, we have all heard about Steel Cut Oats, but what about Quinoa, Millet or Buckwheat? Quinoa was used by the Incas and is still a staple food in South America. This whole grain is a complete protein grain and contains the following essential amino acids: Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Phenylalanine, Methionine, Threonine, Tryptophan and Valine. In addition, Quinoa includes the following non-essential amino acids Cystine and Tyrosine. One serving (1/3 cup) supplies only 134 calories and 3 gms fiber, 4 gms of complete protein and 23 gms of complex carbs to give you the energy you need to burn fat.

Millet in one serving (1/4 cup) gives you 150 calories and 4 gms of protein, 33 gms of complex carbs and gives 15% of your Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of Iron.

These grains are versatile enough so that you can also include them in salads for lunch or dinner!

Check out a few of these unique grains at your local market today!

Stay tuned, because in my next lens, I'll tell you the secret that the alcoholic beverage companies don't want you to know about - those "no sugar, no carb" drinks that will pack on the pounds this holiday season.

Copyright ©2006 MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC and Keith A. Shaw. All rights reserved.