Carbohydrates are our body's main source of energy and supports proper functioning of our organs. The list includes bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, cereal, fruits, vegetables and beans (just to name a few). The key is eating the ones that offer the most nutritional value for their portion. As you can see, according to Harvard School of Public Health, your full fledged carbs (pasta, rice, potatoes, grains) should only cover 1/4 of your plate. Now that doesn't mean you should go buy bigger plates to accommodate your carb habit, it means to choose your carbs carefully.
Whole grains provide more nutritional benefits than refined grains. The bran, which is a source of fiber, the germ, which is a source of protein, vitamins and minerals, and the endosperm, which is where you get the carbs, are all included in the whole grains. The only thing you get from the refined grains is the endosperm, the carbs. Whole grains are also rich in photochemicals and antioxidants which help to protect you from heart disease, some cancers and Diabetes.
Some whole grain suggestions:
Brown or wild rice
Barley
Buckwheat
Rye
Rolled Oats
Quinoa
Couscous
Bulgar
Spelt
Popcorn
Carbohydrates
Health Gains from Whole Grains
