The Good Carbs

Not all carbohydrates are created equal

By Robert Beauchamps

Carbs are evil. That is, if you believe everything you read. The thinking is, if you cut out carbs, your body will use fat for energy and, as a result, burn away those love handles you’ve held on to since university.

But that’s not necessarily the smartest or the safest diet. Here are four foods loaded with naturally occurring carbs you should keep on the menu du jour.

Air-popped, with a pinch of salt and just a bit of butter, popcorn is the healthiest food capable of curing a snack attack. Not only is it low in calories, popcorn’s packed with fibre and easy on digestion.

If carbs are bad, then the potato is the root of evil. If you miss your fix, stick with sweet potatoes or yams. They’re loaded with beta-carotene (good for skin and eyes) and one serving delivers most of the vitamin A, C and B6 you need in a day.

You know you’re a superfood when you sustain an entire empire, the Incan empire to be exact. Indeed, quinoa is one of the healthiest grains in the history of historians. Every tiny bead bursts with protein, fibre, iron and magnesium.

Barley is not just for soup anymore. You can substitute barley for rice in all of those Asian-inspired dishes. After all, barley is high in fibre and manganese and its chewy texture appeals to pasta lovers looking for a healthier alternative.

Summer 2017, Vol 9 N°3

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