Our body gets its energy from the carbohydrates that we eat which mostly comes from plants as well as dairy. There are three types of carbs and these are fiber, sugar, and starch. Fiber does not contain any calories as it is not usually digested. Sugar, on the other hand, is a simple carbohydrate that can be broken down easily. Starch is composed of chains of small sugar that, when broken down, can provide us with energy. Although consumption of too many carbs can have a detrimental effect on our health, choosing the right ones can be good for us.
Here are five carbohydrate-rich foods that you should include in your diet if you want to have constant source of energy.
Whole grains. Whole grains are the best sources of dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates which are good for our health. Corn, wheat, barley, rice, oat, and buckwheat are just a few examples of whole grains that are worth adding to your diet. Brown rice is also a good choice because aside from providing you with plenty of carbohdyrates to fuel you throughout the day, it can also help clean your digestive system.
Quinoa. Here is another type of whole grain that is a good addition to your diet. Think of quinoa as a soup type of couscous which can deliver quite a lot of fiber and protein. The fiber helps keep your digestive system running properly while the protein makes your stomach feel full so you won’t feel the need to eat more than is necessary.
Berries. Yes, berries do contain carbohdyrates which make them a good addition to your diet. Strawberries, blackberries, and even blueberries are packed with pro-anthocyanins as well as antioxidants that can protect you from free radicals. Both the blackberries and strawberries contain up to 14 grams of carbohydrates per cup while blueberries contain up to 21 grams per cup.
Apple. An apple a day can certainly keep the doctor away as it is packed with important nutrients such as carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that can provide protection against various health issues as well as giving your energy a huge boost. Munching on apples in between meals can help keep your tummy satisfied and your blood sugar level balanced. A single apple already contains up to 23 grams of carbohydrates so don’t hesitate to stock some for easy eating.
Bulgur. If you are not familiar with Bulgur it is basically a type of crack wheat that is already parboiled so you just need to soak it in hot water whenever it is used. Aside from carbohydrates, Bulgur also contains plenty of fiber which can help stave off hunger.
These are just a few examples of foods that are not only rich in carbohydrates but also in other essential nutrients that the body needs. What’s great about these options is that they are not that difficult to acquire and they can be prepared easily.
