Carbohydrates
When I first started a diet, carbs became my biggest enemy. It’s known that Italians eat a lot of carbs. In the morning, a brioches with their cappuccino, and for lunch, a plate of pasta and bread is mandatory at the table.
I fought with carbs my entire life until I realized that the most important rule to follow in regards to eating habits is: consciousness and balance.
Do you know that there are different types of carbs?
I will try to keep this as simple as I can, and hope it will be useful.
• Carbohydrates are made up of three components: fiber, starch, and sugar. Depending on how much of each of these is found in a food determines its nutrient quality.
• Carbs: there are 2 main categories: Simple Carbs (sugar) and Complex Carbs (Fiber and Starch).
• Simple carbs: Useful when you need immediate energy. Example: you skipped a meal and in 30 minutes you have the workout and you feel out of energy. A teaspoon of honey, a piece of chocolate, a cookie or fruit juice are the best in this situation. You will burn these kinds of carbs during the workout and they will help you complete the training. They are useful when you need immediate energy.
• Complex Carbs: Examples include wheat, bread, pasta or pizza (no sugar added). It takes longer for your body to digest and to transform them into energy. That’s why I prefer to eat carbs for breakfast or lunch in order to get the energy for the day.
Complex carbs pack in more nutrients than simple carbs. They're higher in fiber and digest more slowly. This also makes them more filling, which means they're a good option for weight control. That’s why you should avoid simple carbs in your diet. Plan your meals with complex carbs in order to get the right amount of energy.
Choosing the right carbs can take time and practice. With a little bit of research and a keen eye for nutrition labels, you can start making healthier choices to energize your body and protect it from long-term complications.
How about a piece of homemade focaccia?
Or a slice of this "pagnotta"?
