8 Carbs You Should Be Eating To Lose Weight

This post will share the most effective carbs to lose weight plus some delicious recipe suggestions, too.

Carbs have sadly been given a bad rep all these years. 

They have been shunned, discarded, and called “evil” by many diets. Naturally, this has caused many people to lessen their intake or *gasp* avoid them altogether. 

But get this. Even though there may be faster weight loss with strict no-carb diets, those benefits don't withstand in the long-term. When consumed in moderation, carbs are essential for your health.

Whether you’re starting the journey to weight loss, or are looking for fresh ideas to spruce up your meal prep, this post will help you identify the carbs that offer maximum nourishment and nutritious benefits. We'll also debunk common misconceptions.

How Many Carbs Should I Consume Daily To Lose Weight?

The recommended carb ratio according to the Food and Drug Administration should be 300 grams per day when you're eating a 2,000 calorie diet. As a personal coach, I will often start my new clients at approximately 36% of their total calories.

Feeling kind of lost? If you’re looking for a detailed guide on how to jumpstart your health, weight loss, and clean-eating lifestyle, check out my 30 Day Healthy Program!

Is It Bad to Cut Out Carbs Completely?

Carbs are great sources of fiber, minerals, vitamins (such as B12), and antioxidants. Removing them completely can lower those important nutrients in your diet.

What Carbs Should I Avoid To Lose Weight?

Not all carbs are created equal. The ones you need to particularly avoid are refined carbohydrates. I'm pretty sure you already have an idea of which these might be. But just in case…

Here’s a list of carbs to avoid for effective weight loss:

• Rice Crackers
• White Bread
• Sugary Cereals
• Potato Chips
• Muffins
• Energy Bars
• Crackers

8 Carbs You Should Be Eating To Lose Weight

Now, let's talk about the carbs that are good for you.

1. Oats

Oats are loaded with complex carbs. They also have 10 grams of protein per a half-cup serving. Look for rolled or steel cut oats (these have more nutrients vs. instant or quick-cook)! These banana oat blender pancakes have definitely kept me full, happy, and satisfied!

2. Legumes

Did you know: lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas are all legumes? These bad boys are great for reducing belly fat. Promising studies have shown that eating a semi-calorie restricted diet that included 4 legume servings per week aided in MORE weight loss compared to those that didn't eat legumes.

Now, ready for a fab recipe? You need to try my awesome Sweet Potato and Lentil Hash.

3. Whole-Wheat Bread

Whole grain bread and pasta have been wondrous additions to my weight loss journey! Check out 6 Best Store Bought Breads to discover the my top picks for store-bought bread. Hearty carbs help you burn more belly fat especially when you nix other more refined carbs.

Give this Chocolate Zucchini Bread a try. It’s made with whole wheat pastry flour, is super easy to prepare, and is a GREAT way to satisfy your chocolate cravings. 

4. Full Fat Yogurt (And Dairy)

Full fat yogurt doesn’t often come to mind when it comes to weight loss. But, this creamy snack can actually lower your body mass index, weight, AND fat. The combination of natural sugars, satiating fat, and protein will keep your cravings at bay. 

Craving for something cool and sweet? Try these Frozen Yogurt Recipes! They’re creamy, rich and flavorful. So, so easy to make! 

5. Bananas

It’s the first thing most people think of when they’re looking for a healthy snack. But my friends, the banana is more than that! Not only does this fruit increase bloat-fighting bacteria in the gut, but it also contains potassium.

Want to level up your smoothie and banana game? Try these 14 Smoothie Freezer Packs. They. Are. Amazeballs.

6. Quinoa

When I got into clean eating, I discovered just how awesome quinoa is. No wonder it’s considered to be the powerhouse of the ancient grains! Quinoa keeps you full and it's also a mostly complete protein which gives you the amino acids your body needs to build muscle. And you know we like to stay fit around here.

If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl will definitely brighten up your morning.

7. Broccoli

Carbs and broccoli don’t normally go in the same sentence. But broccoli is a great source to consider because it packs a good dose of fiber. This aids in digestion, prevents constipation, maintains low blood sugar, and curbs overeating.

This Healthy Broccoli Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing is crunchy, light, and refreshing.

8. Sweet Potatoes

Ahh, my beloved sweet potatoes. They are chock-full of nutrients and loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.

Try these Sweet Potato Nachos. But only if you’re looking for a meal that’s so good it feels like a cheat day.

More Healthy Carb Recipes For Weight Loss

Now you know just how awesome carbs can be! Hopefully, I’ve been able to show you why they’re keepers when it comes to maintaining a great and balanced diet. 

And as a bonus, here's a few more recipes!

• Healthy Au Grain Potatoes (so good and comforting)
• Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing
• 12 Healthy Quinoa Recipes
• Top 12 Demonized Foods That Are Actually Good For You
• Frozen Breakfast Burritos (Healthy Make Ahead Breakfast!)