There are two facts you should know about carbs. One, your body's biggest demand each day is for energy. Carbohydrates are your body's preferred source of energy. That's why carbohydrates should make up the greater part of your diet. Two, carbohydrates come in two forms: starches (complex carbohydrates) and sugars (simple carbohydrates). Complex carbohydrates are chains of simple sugars linked together. Both end up as glucose after digestion.

Ten Good Reasons to Eat (Complex) Carbohydrates

1. Complex carbohydrates like brown rice, whole fruits and vegetables carry important nutrients that are vital for good health. Calorie for calorie, complex carbohydrates supply more nutrition than sucrose or the simple sugars found in sodas, candy and sugarcoated cereal.
2. Eating mostly simple sugars will raise your blood sugar rapidly, boosting insulin quickly. The insulin will clear your blood of the glucose just as rapidly. You'll feel like you're on a roller coaster ride and, often, become prematurely hungry, causing you to overeat. So pass on the simple sugars. Instead:
3. Choose high fiber, complex carbohydrates like whole wheat breads and pasta instead of white flour. The fiber helps slow digestion of the carbohydrate, giving a more time-released supply of energy and resulting in fewer peaks and valleys in your blood sugar levels.
   
   
   • Tips for Increasing Fiber in Your Diet
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