Carbohydrates seem to have somewhat of a bad rep with those in the pseudo-health community. So many popularize low-carb diets as ways to lose weight instantly and stay healthy, but this isn’t really the case. Carbs are not (for the most part) the thing that can make you feel bad or prevent you from staying healthy. In fact, you should be eating carbs to fuel your workout and keep you going for longer! We interviewed Bec Miller, a Clinical Nutritionist (with a Bachelor of Science Nutrition) and the founder of Health with Bec. to find out more about why some carbs are unhealthy for you. Keep reading for more, including an expansive list of what’s bad for you versus what’s good for you!
These Are the Most Unhealthy Carbs from Worst to Best, According to a Nutritionist
If you’re eating carbs, they need to be nutrient-rich so that they’re keeping you full for longer, helping keep your memory sharp, and more. It’s the carbs (like at the beginning of the list) that are packed with sugar, have no nutrients, and contain saturated fat that makes you feel icky. Carbs can help burn fat by giving you fuel. They’re also an amazing source of energy. According to Eating Well, they also keep your heart healthy. This is because they drop your levels of cholesterol. Stick to whole foods and grains and you’ll be good!
If you’re trying to reduce your unhealthy intake of carbs, we sure do have a list for you. Here is a list from worst to best, according to a nutritionist. Can you believe that couscous is worse for you than white bread?
- Doughnuts, croissants, cakes, bagels
- Rice crackers and crisps
- Highly processed cereals
- Couscous
- White bread, white pasta, white rice
- Corn burrito wraps
- Grain bread
- Brown rice
- Sweet corn
- Potatoes
- Oats
- Bulgur, quinoa, buckwheat, barley, legumes
- Most fruits and vegetables
