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You can eat carbs to lose weight? Yes–well, only if they’re complex carbs. These types of carbs take longer to digest and help your body get the energy it needs to burn calories properly for weight loss.
“Complex carbohydrates eaten with an effective diet of protein and healthy fats will keep you healthy and promote effective weight loss,” Tessa Prior-Pullins, one of the lead dietitians for BistroMD. “On a daily basis, you should eat meals that focus on lean protein, with sides that contain complex carbohydrates, like quinoa, rice, or green vegetables.”
The Best Carbs For Weight Loss
Not sure which complex carbs you should be eating to help promote weight loss? It’s always a safe bet to opt for whole grains and fruits and vegetables when looking for healthy carbs to add to your diet. Here are the best carbs for weight loss that fitness experts recommend having all the time:
1. Quinoa
Quinoa is the perfect pasta alternative when you're craving something starchy. It's loaded in protein and fiber, which helps keep you feeling fuller longer while your metabolism has the nutrients it needs to burn calories.
2. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are very nutritious and make for a healthy weight loss-friendly carb. They're low in calories and a good source of fiber, which has been found to keep your cholesterol levels low, protect you from cardiovascular disease and regulate your blood sugar--all while helping you lose weight, too!
3. Oatmeal
Looking for healthy breakfast foods that foster weight loss? Then you should definitely be having oatmeal in the A.M. Oatmeal has been found to help reduce belly fat and overall body fat because of its high fiber and protein count. In addition to shrinking your waistline, a bowl of oatmeal can also help lower your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and colon cancer!
4. Popcorn
Great news--you don't have to stop snacking to lose weight! You can enjoy a serving of air-popped popcorn, which has been found to lower body fat and BMI.
5. Black Rice
Black rice is loaded with healthy antioxidants and minerals that help boost the metabolism and encourage weight loss. It's high fiber, vitamin E and anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that can help you shed pounds.
