What are carbohydrates, and are they all bad?

Are all carbohydrates bad? Learn more about the different types and sources of carbohydrate foods from leading Herbalife Nutrition experts.

Are carbohydrates the enemy?

In recent decades, carbohydrates have gone from being hailed as the number one enemy of weight management. But is this controversial macronutrient really not good for you? For Susan Bowerman, Director, Nutrition Education, they are precisely the misunderstood group! Those who try to avoid carbohydrates by eating few or none at all usually steer clear of the most familiar sources like bread, pasta, and potatoes, but did you know that carbohydrates are found in many other foods?

"Lots of foods contain carbohydrates, and that's good, since the body needs carbohydrates for fuel," Susan explains.

However, Susan is quick to point out that not all carbohydrates are created equal. She explains that the less processed the carbohydrates, the better. Examples of good choices include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. “In addition to containing carbohydrates, these foods also provide us with vitamins and minerals,” she says.

“Vegetable foods also contain dietary fiber.”

Carbohydrates that should be avoided are those that are highly processed and refined, such as cakes, biscuits, white pasta, white flour, and certain foods such as pizza.

“They don't add much to the body other than calories,” says Susan. “That’s why it’s important that we meet our carbohydrate needs through healthier sources, as we also get many other nutrients in the bargain.”

That's why fiber is so important!

Many people are unaware that fiber is a type of carbohydrate and is considered one of the most important dietary factors. Fiber, found in foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains, plays a major role in your gut by keeping it functioning at a normal rate.

Try Oat and Apple Fiber Drink - it's a well-balanced, calorie-controlled choice that contains 5g of fiber per serving. And even better! Plus, it tastes great and is sugar-free.

Do you want to regulate your weight and eat more fiber?

Replace two meals a day with your favorite Formula 1 shake*, plus a daily serving of Oat and Apple Fiber Drink to help you increase your daily fiber intake. End the day with a good, well-balanced meal.

Don't forget

The results you achieve depend on 80% nutrition and 20% exercise, so why not try some of Samantha Clayton's workout tips on how to get in shape?

*For weight management: Replacing two daily meals in an energy-reduced diet with meal replacements contributes to weight loss. Replace two daily meals with a tasty F1 shake and eat a nutritious meal.

Susan Bowerman is the Director of Nutrition Training for Herbalife Nutrition. Susan is a registered dietitian and certified specialist in Sports Dietetics.