Starches play a big factor into carbs as it is one of 3 main categories the others being sugar and fiber. Starches are complex carbohydrates because of the many sugar molecules that join together. This allows for a slower release of sugar that prevents a rapid spike in blood sugar.

Now here is where the trouble comes in to finding the right starch resistant carbs. Many highly refined starches found in pretzels and rice krispies cereal strip the nutrients and fiber out of the starch which turns it into a simpler carb. That causes a quicker release of sugar into the blood making a dramatic spike in the blood sugar. This happens because the fiber helps create the slow release as a starch resistant carb and it is no longer there to do its job. Look for whole grain options that keeps fiber and other nutrients in the Starch such as whole-grain flour.

White flour that is 68% starch is what is left after stripping brain and the germ that contains the nutrition and fiber from whole wheat. White flour can be found in tortillas, bagels, white bread, and english muffins just to name a few. Having too much refined starches in your diet can lead to diabetes, heart disease, and weight gain. Carbs that are good for you are in unprocessed sources such as sorghum flour, oats, and the occasional potato. They hold great sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

helpful nutritional facts from healthy lifestyle secretsSecret: Secret: Starches are the most commonly consumed type of carbohydrate.

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