fbpx

What Carbs Should You Eat To Lose Belly Fat?

A table stacked with different types of carbs.

Carbs and weight loss don’t always go hand in hand. For years, people have thought that cutting carbs is the key to losing belly fat. But the truth is, not all carbs are bad. Some can actually help you shed those extra kilos.

So, what’s the truth behind the carb myth? What carbs should you eat to lose belly fat?

Let’s find out!

The Truth About Carbs and Weight Loss

Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients, along with protein and fat. They provide the body with energy to fuel our daily activities and exercise.

There are two main types of carbohydrates: simple and complex.

  • Simple carbs are made up of one or two sugar molecules and are quickly digested, giving you a quick energy boost. They are found in foods like fruits, honey, and processed snacks.
  • Complex carbs comprise longer chains of sugar molecules and take longer to digest, providing sustained energy. They are found in foods like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes.

The problem with carbs arises when we consume too many simple carbs, which can lead to weight gain. This is because they spike our blood sugar levels, causing the body to release insulin to regulate it. Insulin is a hormone that tells our cells to store excess glucose (sugar) as fat instead of using it for energy. On the other hand, complex carbs digest more slowly, keeping us full longer and providing steady energy without blood sugar spikes.

Carbs also tend to get a bad reputation because they are often found in processed and high-calorie foods. These foods include white bread, sugary drinks, and snacks like chips and cookies. Consuming too many of these types of carbs can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

The bottom line is that you can cut carbs to lose weight, but it’s not necessarily the best or healthiest approach. In fact, cutting out entire food groups can lead to nutrient deficiencies and other health problems. Instead, opt for a balanced diet that includes complex carbs in moderation.

What Carbs Should You Eat To Lose Belly Fat?

Belly fat is stubborn and challenging to lose. However, cutting out carbs completely is not the answer. Our bodies need carbohydrates for various functions, and they are especially important for brain function.

Instead of eliminating all carbs from your diet, focus on making healthier choices and incorporating the right carbs (and the right amount of it) into your meals.

Here are carbs you can eat to lose belly fat:

1. Quinoa

Quinoa is a seed that is often categorised as a whole grain. It is high in fibre, protein, and essential nutrients like magnesium and potassium. It also has a low glycemic index (GI) score, which means it does not spike blood sugar levels as much as other grains do. And for those who have a gluten intolerance, quinoa is a gluten-free alternative!

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and beta-carotene (which gets converted to vitamin A in our bodies). The fibre in sweet potatoes helps slow down digestion, keeping us fuller for longer. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

3. Chickpeas

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a type of legume that is high in fibre and protein. They also have a low GI score, making them an excellent option for regulating blood sugar levels. Plus, chickpeas can help with weight loss by keeping us full and satisfied.

4. Oatmeal

Oatmeal, not those sugary instant packets, is an excellent source of whole grains and fibre. It can help reduce visceral fat (the dangerous type of fat that surrounds our organs), lower cholesterol levels, and improve digestion.

5. Popcorn

Instead of reaching for a bag of chips, opt for air-popped popcorn as a healthy snack option. It is high in fibre and low in calories, making it a great alternative to processed snacks. Just make sure not to load it with butter and salt!

6. Lentils

Lentils are another great source of plant-based protein and fibre. They also contain folate, iron, and potassium, making them a nutrient-dense option for vegetarians or vegans. Lentils are also versatile and can be used in various dishes like soups, stews, and salads.

How Many Carbs Should You Eat A Day?

The amount of carbohydrates a person should consume varies based on individual needs and goals. Generally, the average adult should aim for 45-65% of their daily calorie intake to come from carbohydrates. For example, if you consume a 2000-calorie diet, 900-1300 of those calories should come from carbohydrates.

Lose The Belly Fat Today!

Incorporate these carbs into your diet and start shedding that stubborn belly fat today. Remember, balance is key in any diet, so make sure to also incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals.

Find out more about healthy living by contacting one of your Slender Wonder medical practitioners. They believe in empowering you with the knowledge and support to make healthy choices for your body and overall well-being.

Let’s say goodbye to belly fat and hello to a healthier, happier lifestyle!

Related Articles

The Power of Now: Shifting Your Mindset to Start Today

The Power of Now: Shifting Your Mindset to Start Today

Starting something new, especially when it comes to health and wellness, often seems like an overwhelming task. Whether it's committing to a weight loss goal, improving your diet, or adopting a more active lifestyle, we often tell ourselves we’ll start "tomorrow" or...

read more