CONFUSED ABOUT CARBS?

If you are confused about carbs, you are not alone. Arguments regarding carbs are almost as contentious as arguments about politics. If you are one who thinks we Americans are gorging on carbs, sorry, but you are wrong. For many years now the percentage number of calories from carbs in the American diet has remained at around 50%. That information is from Joanne Slavin, Ph.D., RD. a food science and nutrition professor. She stated that studies have shown that people who get half or more of their calories from carbs are at healthier body weights. 

According to the Mayo Clinic the dietary guideline for Americans recommends that carbs make up 45% - 65% of one's total daily calories. That means for a 2,000 calorie a day diet, for example, 900 to 1,300 calories should come from carbs. That comes to 225 and 325 grams of carbs. Surprised? That doesn't mean rushing to the nearest doughnut shop and loading up on sweets. There are different types of carbs and doughnuts, and candy are not on the 'good carbs' list.

"Carbohydrates: Your Body's Most Important Source of Fuel" from Everyday Health.

More on carbs on the next post.