Taste Life Blog

One of my lovely readers, Nancy posted this great question.

“Good stuff, Chere. I’m still confused on complex versus simple carbs and know that can make a big difference. Any more thoughts on that subject? I love the idea of buying veg already cut up although more costly, it’s better to eat correctly and not have to spend hours cutting up everything. I only wonder how fresh some of those veg cut-up trays are or have been sitting on the shelves at Cub or elsewhere. I’m waiting for your book to arrive. Thanks. Nancy”

First, it’s great that you are buying cut up veggies so they are easy to eat. Another option for you could also be frozen veggies which would not require any prep work and some studies have suggested there is more nutrition in frozen veggies as they are picked and immediately processed than fresh.

The goal is variety and that YOU are eating veggies.

www.myplate.gov recommends half your plate be fruits and veggies.

As for your carbs question,  the institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends 45% to 65% of your calories come from carbohydrate.

All carbs provide the same calories per gram whether they are from a slice of whole wheat bread, a teaspoon of sugar or a serving of rice; however there are important differences.

Simples carbohydrates

These are found in fruits, milk and yogurt and are easily digested by your body. They are also found in processed foods and anything with refined sugar added.

Complex carbohydrates

These are found in nearly all plant based foods, and usually take longer for the body to digest. They are most commonly found in whole grains, bread, pasta, rice and vegetables.