11 Foods High in Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates can cause problems for the dieter as well as for anyone at risk for diabetes. For some people, carbohydrates can lead to a digestive imbalance which can cause serious problems in many systems in the body. While some carbohydrates create more of a glycemic spike than others or cause more health problems than others, any food with a high carbohydrate content can cause the body to hold onto fat and go into an overproduction of insulin. If you are trying to lose weight, it's best to aim for no more than a net of 80 grams of carbohydrates a day and to try to avoid sudden spikes in blood sugar. Here are 11 foods that are especially high incarbohydrates.

1. High Fructose Corn Syrup

Even though it is made from corn, this is one of the worst ingredients for your health. It is a highly processed food that packs on the pounds because it makes you want more sugar and it is very high in calories. It has also been implicated in problems with the liver.

2. Soda

One can of soda can contain 36 or more grams of carbohydrates. And that's all in empty calories with no fiber or other nutrition so it's an immediate glycemic spike.

3. Jam and Jelly

Even all-fruit jam or jelly is mostly sugar. It's certainly a better choice than jam with added sugar, but should still be used sparingly.

4. Bananas

While high in fiber and potassium, one banana contains 23.9 net carbs. Bananas contain the highest sugar content of any fruit.

5. Apples

Apples are great for you in many ways. But if you are trying to watch your carbohydrate intake, go for a strawberry or some kiwi instead. One apple contains about 21 grams of carbohydrates.

6. Bread

Even whole grain bread has around 20 grams of carbohydrates in one slice. The number is even higher for white bread. Limit your bread intake and try using a large chard leaf or a seaweed wrap instead.

7. Pasta

White flour or seminola pasta is a high-glycemic food. Try quinoa pasta or buckwheat pasta instead and measure out the portion carefully.

8. Fruit Juices

When you drink your fruit instead of eating it, you miss out on the fiber that lowers the glycemic impact of the food. Moreover, people rarely just drink the half cup of fruit juice that equals one whole serving of fruit. A smoothie is usually much more than half a cup and often contains other ingredients with added sugar like frozen yogurt.

9. Desserts

Even a healthy piece of pie with agave instead of sugar can really pack on thecarbohydrates. Make your own desserts using Stevia or whole fruit as a sweetener.

10. Starchy Vegetables

Peas, acorn squash, and corn can contain up to 30 grams of carbohydrates per cup. Choose green leafy vegetables or broccoli instead.

11. Granola and Other Cereals

Cereal can be a healthy way to start the day, but measure out the amount and be aware of the carb content. Granola especially can typically contain added sugar and dried fruits, which can both add up to an even higher carb content.

Published By: 

Angela Lumley

Sources:

http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/healthy-eating/11-foods-high-in-carbohydrates.html#b