All this talk about good and bad carbs has led us to focus on one thingthe fiber content of foods. Fiber is naturally found in fruits, legumes, whole grains and vegetables. It's an essential part of a healthy diet and plays a vital role in a robust digestive system. There are two types of fiber, soluble (dissolves in water) and insoluble fiber (does not dissolve in water). Both are incredibly important and can be found in a variety of healthy foods.
Foods full of healthy carbohydrates have higher fiber content and are therefore digested more slowly. Because the body uses these carbs over a slower period, it does not cause an insulin rush. Additionally, the body can use that energy over several hours, keeping you full and energized for extended periods.
When looking for healthy foods, full of complex carbohydrates to add to your diet, whole grains are often the best source. Full of important vitamins, minerals and fiber, they are a great source of energy. However, whole grains aren't the only source of good carbs out there. Many vegetables and some fruits contain a great number of complex carbs. A diet that includes a strong amount of good carbohydrates from whole grains, vegetables and fruits is necessary for a well-balanced lifestyle.
Nutrient-rich complex carbs to add your healthy diet include:
This delicious Curried Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew is great for a savory lunch or light dinner. Fill your stew with flavor-enhancing ingredients like potatoes, red lentils, ginger and lemongrass. For an even simpler cooking process, you can use a multi-cooker to make this stew. It is a wonderful dish to make when you find yourself with a bunch of fresh herbs and spices on hand. This particular recipe calls for cilantro and lime to dress the dish along with ginger, ground pepper, turmeric and cumin. Add this soup to your collection of high-carb, good-for-you recipes. We're confident that you won't be disappointed.
Granola and sweet potatoes are two of the healthiest high-carb foods around. When combined, they create a nutrient-rich dish that makes for a great light dinner or side. Packed with fiber, nutrients and healthy carbs, this Granola Stuffed Sweet Potatoes recipe combines your favorite sweet and savory flavors in a mouthwatering way. Sweet potatoes, pumpkin seeds, rolled oats and delicious maple tahini are baked together to make this one of the best high-carb vegetarian dishes out there!
Pancakes are a breakfast dish that everyone has attempted to make at least oncewhile they may seem like a simple breakfast to whip up, perfecting the distinct "fluffy" pancake texture requires a certain level of skill. If you're searching for an easy-to-make pancake recipe that's also great for you, then try out these Buttermilk Barley Pancakes.
Loaded with healthy ingredients like barley and yogurt, these pancakes are extremely simple to make and a recipe that the entire family is bound to enjoy! When making these pancakes, we encourage you to get creative with the toppings.
Here is a list of our favorite pancake toppings:
