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Healthy Weight Loss in Jacksonville Beach: Carbs Ain’t the Enemy!

You’ve probably been told over and over again that you need to shun carbohydrates to win the weight loss battle. While there’s a hint of truth to it, carbs are actually not to be blamed with the extra pounds you’re carrying. The Thin Centers medical team who promotes Jacksonville Beach healthy weight loss programs educates their clients that there are a lot of factors to consider, apart from carbohydrate intake, when it comes to weight loss.

Whole Carbs vs. Refined Carbs

You might find it interesting that the top 10 countries with low obesity rates have high levels of carbohydrates in their daily diet like rice, corn, and sweet potatoes.

Carbohydrates, by and large, cause insulin spikes whenever you consume them. Insulin transports the sugar from the carbs to your fat cells, making you gain weight. However, it’s interesting to note that not all carbs are created equal — there’s the refined carbs on one side and the whole (unprocessed) carbs on the other.

The aforementioned insulin spikes are actually a result of consuming refined carbs rather than whole carbs. The more processed the carbs, the greater the chances of having abnormally high insulin levels in your system.

Whole Food Means Good Food

Below is a sample list of whole carbs that are actually good for you!

1. Fruits – While the fructose (the main sugar in fruit) is converted to fat in your liver, fruit sugars are actually good for you! The fiber is even an added bonus.

2. Oatmeal – Real oats that is, like rolled and steel cut oats. Steer clear of instant and flavored oats which are already heavily processed.

3. Brown Rice – Brown rice has been found out to actually have 4 times more fiber and lower glycemic index than white rice.

4. Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse filled with Vitamins B6, D and C! They also contain trace amounts of iron which play a variety of roles in your body — from strengthening your immune system to metabolizing protein.

5. Beans- Very rich in carbs, beans are an excellent source of folate, protein and iron.

When it comes to carbs, your best bet would be figuring out which works for you and which doesn’t. Let us help you out by scheduling your first visit and consultation at our Thin Centers clinic in Jacksonville Beach. Call us at 904.694.0992 or fill out this contact form!