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Food

4 Carbs No One Over 40 Should Be Eating Anymore Because They Slow Down Your Metabolism

October 1, 2019 by Lisa Cupido
shefinds | Food
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No foods should be completely off limits. But if you are trying to lose weight and increase your metabolism, there are certain carbs that are best when eaten in moderation. These refined carbohydrates are examples of foods that are high in sugar, but low in fiber content and other important nutrients. They won’t fill you up like whole, unrefined carbs, proteins, and healthy fats and can contribute to other health issues like an increased risk of cardiovascular disorder and Type 2 diabetes.

Here are four carbs no one over 40 should be eating anymore because they slow down your metabolism.

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cereal

Sugar-Filled Cereals


It’s a sad day when you realize the breakfast cereals you once believed were healthy are seriously lacking in nutrients. Many processed cereals are high in sugar — some (like raisin bran) can have as much as 18 grams of sugar per small 1 cup serving. There are cereals out there that are made with whole grains and are high in fiber and low in sugar, but it becomes increasingly important to read labels when picking and choosing cereals.

yogurt

Flavored Yogurt


Yogurt is a probiotic-rich food that is high in calcium, protein, and other vitamins and minerals — as long as you’re choosing the right kind of yogurt. There is a major difference between plain, low-fat Greek yogurt and flavored, or fruit-on-the-bottom yogurts. And that difference comes down to sugar content. Always choose plain varieties and dress them up yourself with toppings like berries or nuts and seeds.

soda

Soda


It’s the very definition of empty calories: one can of soda contains 39 grams of sugar and 150 calories — with absolutely no vitamins, minerals, protein, nada.


A much, much better bet is to make a refreshing and tasty water or sparkling water beverage infused with fruit, cucumbers, and herbs like mint.

zeppole

Fried Carb Treats


They’re the highlight of every street fair — and should be enjoyed at every street fair. But fried carb treats like Zeppole are high in sugar and saturated fat and low in just about every nutrient.


Good news for Zeppole fans: these oven-baked Zeppole are still every bit as delicious, without being deep friend in oil.

Author:

Lisa Fogarty is a lifestyle writer and reporter based in New York who covers health, wellness, relationships, sex, beauty, and parenting.

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Freshly baked goods from Costco bakery display.
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Aromatic coffee with sugar being added.
Variety of fast food from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, Starbucks.
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Tasty bagels with blueberries and butter on a wooden board.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
Brazilian dish featuring rice, beans, and chicken from above.
Close-up of watch as someone eats breakfast.
Display of deli meats, sandwiches, hot dogs, and sausages.
Cooked salmon served with rice, avocado, and greens.
Interior view of a Costco store showcasing various products.
Woman taking magnesium supplement for health benefits.
Selection of s'mores brownies and baked ricotta from Aldi.
Grilled chicken breast with fries, salad, and dipping sauces.
Frozen pizza options available in grocery store aisle.
Person having a lunch meal.
Sipping spearmint tea in a cozy setting.
Variety of bread types showcased on a table.
Freshly baked goods from Costco bakery display.
Woman holding her head, expressing stress.
Woman experiencing joint pain while sitting.
Aromatic coffee with sugar being added.
Variety of fast food from Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, Starbucks.
Woman adding sugar to a steaming cup of coffee.
Tasty bagels with blueberries and butter on a wooden board.
Comparison of cooking spray and olive oil for healthy cooking.
Brazilian dish featuring rice, beans, and chicken from above.
Close-up of watch as someone eats breakfast.
Display of deli meats, sandwiches, hot dogs, and sausages.
Cooked salmon served with rice, avocado, and greens.
Interior view of a Costco store showcasing various products.
Woman taking magnesium supplement for health benefits.
Selection of s'mores brownies and baked ricotta from Aldi.
Grilled chicken breast with fries, salad, and dipping sauces.
Frozen pizza options available in grocery store aisle.