Pasta. Pizza. Pastries. Pleasures. Comforting carbs are loved by college students across the country. They also happen to be staple foods at the dining halls, making it very difficult to deny. But are carbs something we should control? OR just another fad from the diet world?
Many people state that “I am on a low-carb diet.” Typically, they’re referring to pasta and bread, but what many don’t know is that dairy, fruit and vegetables have naturally occurring carbs.
Carbs are very easy for our body to break down and are needed for us to be energized. Because of this it is recommended that 45 to 65 percent of the calories we eat come from carbs.
That does not mean to now shove your face with spaghetti all day. All carbs are not created equal. It is important to note that Carbohydrates vary widely in terms of their nutrient density. Some healthy high-carb options include; Quinoa, Oats, Buckwheat, Bananas, Sweet Potatoes (not in the french fry form), blueberries and asparagus. Beans and lentils are also high in carbohydrates, protein, and fiber.
For a healthy diet, people should limit or avoid refined carbohydrates with little or no nutritional content. High-carb foods that people should try to avoid include: candy, sugary breakfast cereals, white pasta, white bread, white rice, cookies, muffins, and other baked products, flavored and sweetened yogurt, potato chips, sugary juices, and sodas.
Portion control with carbs is important, so know there is a difference between “When in Rome” and “When in Smith”. Another rule of thumb with carbs is to ask yourself “What can I eat that provides me with the most nutrition?”
If you have any more questions feel free to set up an appointment with the Angelina Caradonna the Dietetic intern. To schedule an appointment, email health@owu.edu or call 740-368-3160
https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/6-myths-about-carbs-are-preventing-you-losing-weight-ncna790901
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323110.php
OWU Sponsoring Organization/Office: Student Health Center
Contact: Lexi Lease at anlease@owu.edu