Jessica Rosen, a certified holistic health coach and president of Raw Generation says, "It is detrimental to cut out carbs entirely because it can put the body in a constant state of ketosis. Ketosis is fine in the short term, but over an extended period of time, it causes the body to be overly acidic and can damage your health. Excess acidity in the body promotes inflammation, digestive problems, and chronic disease.”

The word “carbohydrates” can trigger so many emotions and varying reactions from many. It’s loved by some, but despised by most - especially those trying to lose weight.

Our way of thinking has become so influenced by what we see on media that we tend to lose sight of what our body really needs. Kim Kardashian West for example. She takes pride in the Atkins diet, a low-carbohydrate program aimed at weight loss. But a study shows that those who cut fat rather than carbs are more likely to burn body fat overall.

Of course, it’s also important to keep in mind that there are 2 kinds of carbohydrates - bad carbohydrates and good carbohydrates.

So what kinds of carbohydrates are good for the body?

Acorn Squash

Acorn Squash, also known as Pepper Squash, is a very healthy carbohydrate that is rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium and magnesium, and antioxidant beta-carotene which promotes healthy skin and good vision.

Its Vitamin C content helps boost the immune system, has anti-inflammatory properties, regulates collagen production, and speeds up the body’s fat burning process.

Here are various recipes that you can follow in preparing your healthy Acorn Squash meal - http://www.foodnetwork.com/topics/acorn-squash-recipes

High-Protein Legumes

Certain legumes like black beans, lentils, and peanuts, are a great source of plant-based proteins and Vitamin B. Beans and peas, in specific, are the ideal breakfast food for maintenance and weight loss, as they help you stay full longer and have a healthy digestion afterwards.

Barley

Barley contains a high fibre content that helps in lowering cholesterol, decreasing blood sugar, and increasing satiety.

It’s also rich in antioxidants, essential amino acids, and beneficial enzymes, all helping strengthen the immune system, detoxify the body, maintain healthy skin, and more!

As celebrity nutritionist, Elissa Goodman, suggests, add barley extract to your morning smoothie or green juice for extra boost.

Quinoa

Quinoa is one of the healthiest carbs as it’s gluten-free, high in fibre, packed with antioxidants, and rich in nutrients like iron, zinc, and magnesium. Unlike other high-carbohydrate foods, quinoa sustains the appetite whilst decreasing the blood glucose levels. This is important for healthy weight loss, as excess glucose gets stored as fat in the body.

Sweet Potato

Sweet Potatoes are known as the ‘King of Slow Carbs’ as they’re slowly digested by the body, making you feel full a lot longer. Its magic ingredient is carotenoid, an antioxidant which stabilizes blood-sugar levels and lowers insulin resistance, preventing calories from being converted into fat. Sweet potatoes are loaded with fibre and nutrients, making it even better for the body!

If you’re looking into incorporating these good carbs with a slimming treatment, speak to our specialists on 04 343 7987. We’d love to help you design a plan specially catered for your body’s needs.