Carbs are not evil. Your body needs them and they could be the BEST allies to your weight loss! This post will share the most effective carbs to lose weight. Plus some delicious recipe suggestions, too.
Carbs…They’ve sadly been given a bad rep alllll these years.
They have been shunned, discarded. Called “evil” by many diets! Naturally, this has caused many people to lessen their intake or *gasp* avoid them altogether.
But get this. When consumed in moderation, carbs can actually be one of your best pals for weight loss. I’m 100% serious.
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 and get straight to the facts that work. Read on further for yummy recipes you can try! Because any diet should taste good…really good.
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. If you’re looking to lose weight, you can shave off digits but I wouldn’t recommend dropping below 150 grams per day for too long (for you health’s sake).
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?
Unless you want to go full on yo-yo diet (lose some, gain it all back) you should not cut carbs completely. They are the body’s main source of energy! You may lose weight this way BUT you’ll be depleted, super hungry, and lose that healthy glow.
Plus, carbs are great sources of fiber, minerals, vitamins (such as B12), and antioxidants. Removing them completely can rob you of important nutrients in your diet. Not to mention enthusiasm for life!
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
What Carbs Should I Eat To Lose Belly Fat?
When you’re looking to lose belly fat, you should eat complex carbs plentiful with dietary fiber. It takes your body longer to break them down which keeps you full and curbs cravings…you know, those things you get 24/7 when you don’t eat enough. Keep reading to learn about the top 8 carbs for weight loss.
8 Carbs You Should Be Eating To Lose Weight
1. Oats
Oats are loaded with complex carbs! They also have 10 grams of protein per a half-cup serving which makes for an excellent energy boost. 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. Woohoo! 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 most nutritious brands you can buy. 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 stomach, but it’s also packed with potassium (which helps diminish water retention).
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 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. Not only are they chock-full of nutrients but they also have medicinal properties. They’re loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. It’s no wonder sweet potatoes are a superfood!
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!)
This post contains affiliate links for products I use regularly and highly recommend.
Recipes look delicious but what about the people
With kidney stone formers?