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Carbs aren't the enemy when it comes to your metabolism. Well, at least some aren't. There are certain carbs that can wreak havoc on your digestive system.
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According to Dr. Barry Sears, leading authority in anti-inflammatory nutrition, author of the Zone Diet book series, and president of the non-profit, Inflammation Research Foundation, the worst carbs for your metabolism are refined carbs--but what exactly are those?
Any sugar or starch that has been altered by any type of processing to be "refined" is a refined carbohydrate. So white breads and pastas, pretzels and chips that come in bags, you get the idea.
Sears says, "The worst carbs are those that enter the blood at a rapid rate (i.e. refined carbs) because they increase insulin secretion that drives down blood sugar levels inducing rapid hunger and the tendency to overcome consume more calories." So basically by eating refined carbs, you won't stay full for long and actually overeat because of low blood sugar.
Sears also explains where the sugar of refined carbs comes into play with slowing your metabolism. "The elevated insulin levels cause by refined sugars also inhibit the release of stored body fat by inhibiting the hormone-sensitive lipase of the fat cells." Basically, refined carbs make you gain weight and keep it on.
So next time you're eating carbs, opt for whole wheat options to stay away from anything refined.
