|
Weight control and Health |
Why are Americans getting fatter on a low-fat, high carbohydrate diet? We’re not. Because we are not eating less fat; we are eating the same number of grams of fat as we did 20 years ago, and about 300 to 500 extra calories per day. Therefore, the percentage of fat calories has gone down but only because total calories have gone up.
Complex carbohydrates foods play an important role in weight control because they are usually low in calories and fat and high in dietary fiber which creates a full feeling, and may help discourage over-consumption of higher caloric foods.
Contrary to the recent resurgence of highprotein-diet claims, both controlled, peer-reviewed studies & epidemiological data show that high carbohydrate diets are best for weight control.
Diabetes
Carbohydrates are crucial to managing diabetes and high blood sugar. Under medical supervision, persons with diabetes who follow a diet high in complex carbohydrates and fiber often have better blood sugar control.
Heart disease
A diet high in fiber and complex carbohydrates may be beneficial in lowering blood cholesterol. The soluble fiber in oats, legumes, fruits, vegetables and some grains is effective in lowering blood cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease. |
|
