Simple Carbohydrates vs. Complex Carbohydrates: What’s the Difference?

Simple Carbs to Avoid

As previously mentioned, not all simple carbs are inherently bad. Simple carbs sourced from whole foods like dairy products, fruit and vegetables are still fair game in moderation. But, if you’re looking for some hard and fast simple carb rules, it’s best to avoid anything processed.

Things with added sugars like syrups, cookies, candies, and sweet soft drinks should be avoided. Not only are they loaded with calories, but they provide little to no nutritional value.

Complex Carbs to Seek Out

As if things weren’t complex enough for you, complex carbohydrates aren’t all created equally either. When pursuing the menu or strolling down the aisles at your neighborhood grocery store in search of beneficial complex carbohydrates, aim for whole grain.

Whole grains like brown rice, wild rice, and oatmeal are always a safe bet. As are non-starchy vegetables like asparagus and zucchini. Beans and legumes such as kidney beans, lentils, and chickpeas are also fantastic stand-ins for anyone looking to cut down on their meat consumption.

The Takeaway

We hope the time you took to read our comprehensive carbohydrate breakdown helped you better understand the differences, pros, and cons of simple and complex carbohydrates. It may seem like a lot of information to read about, but in practice, it’s finta easy to understand.

Say yes to whole foods and whole grains and say no to anything processed to protect yourself from energy crashes and supply your body with the nutrition it needs to help you get the most out of your day.