26 simple ways to make carbs HEALTHY to help you lose weight

PASTA, potatoes, pizza, cakes… some of our favorite foods are not exactly synonymous with good health.

So whether you’re hoping to improve your overall health or just want lose a few poundsa five-cheese stuffed crust pizza with extra salami is probably not the way to go.

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But ‘naughty’ carb-based foods don’t always HAVE to wreak havoc on the waistor contribute to the poor Health.

In fact, our bodies actually need certain carbohydrates.

Eli BrecherNutritionist and Founder of Eli Brecher Nutritionexplains that “eating healthy carbohydrates in moderation” is “vital for our bodies to function optimally.”

She says: “As the body’s main source of fuel for children and parents alike, carbohydrates can support concentration at school and cognitive performance at work, as well as energy levels for a post-season football game.” school or a exercise in the gym.”

However, he adds, it’s important to keep in mind that some carbohydrates are more nutritious than others.

She says: “Instead of banishing carbohydrates from our plates, we should focus on choosing carbohydrates that offer a higher dose of fiber and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, compared to foods with added sugars and refined grains”.

Ready to transform your favorite carb-based dishes into their healthier versions?

That is how…

6 WAYS TO TRANSFORM PASTA

A staple for the family, pasta dishes can actually provide plenty of treats, so there’s no need to fear fettuccine.

Eli recommends swapping white pasta for the whole-grain variety, as this will provide more guts lover fiber.

“Or go one step further and choose chickpea-based pasta or red lentil pasta for higher fiber and protein content, which fill you up faster so you’re less likely to overeat.”

Not sure how the kids will like this new pasta?

“If you don’t want to change your (or your kids’) pasta type overnight, you can start by replacing just half your pasta serving with one of these options and mixing it in with some white pasta,” she says. Eli. .

As for sauces, instead of a thick, creamy pasta sauce that can pack a lot of calories and high levels of fat, Eli suggests opting for a homemade tomato sauce.

“This is high in the antioxidant lycopene. Add a handful of wilted spinach for a boost of iron, vitamin K, and magnesium.”

Antioxidants are necessary to help protect our body’s cells against disease, while iron can help prevent fatigue.

3 WAYS TO TRANSFORM RISOTTO

This rice-based dish is often made with thick, creamy sauces.

Eli recommends swapping the heavy cream and butter for a naturally creamy vegetable puree like pumpkin or butternut squash.

Also, add vegetables like peas and onions for some extra goodness.

“You could also experiment with high-fiber cereals, such as brown rice or quinoa risotto, instead of the traditional rice risotto.”

Eli explains that fiber is essential for good gut health and helps reduce the risk of heart disease, race, obesity Y bowel cancer.

“Fiber can help with weight loss as it encourages the body to feel full.”

4 WAYS TO TRANSFORM FEET

Baking a homemade cake this weekend? It doesn’t have to be a grease trap.

“Make your pie base with whole wheat flour or oatmeal, or swap half of your flour for ground almonds for an added boost of protein, fiber, and vitamin E,” says Eli.

Vitamin E is essential for a healthy immune system and also helps maintain healthy skin and eyes.

“Amplify the nutrient content of your pie by sneaking in vegetables – a savory pie could include mushrooms, leeks or zucchini,” adds Eli.

If you’re opting for a store-bought pie, choose a crustless pie or quiche to help cut calories.

5 WAYS TO TRANSFORM PIZZA

Friday night pizza night just got a little healthier.

Instead of white, refined bases, Eli suggests choosing a whole grain crust.

“Use lighter cheeses, top your pizza with lots of veggies like mushrooms, sweet corn, and olives, and be mindful of portion sizes; maybe share a pizza and a salad between you and a friend, so you only eat half of the pizza.”

You could even use whole grain wraps as a pizza base, for a much lighter, lower calorie option.

3 WAYS TO TRANSFORM JACKET POTATOES

Instead of topping your humble potato with mountains of fatty cheese, try tuna, low-sugar baked beans, or shredded chicken and avocado.

“Why not turn this into a covered sweet potato instead of a regular white potato?” says Eli.

“Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene to support a healthy immune system, and they have a lower glycemic index than white potatoes, meaning they are less likely to spike your blood sugar.

“Whatever potato you choose, make sure you eat the skin, which is where most of the fiber is found.”

5 WAYS TO TRANSFORM SANDWICHES

A lunchtime classic, sandwiches can be a high-carb option, but they can be really good when done right.

“Go for whole grain bread with seeds instead of white bread and fill it with vegetables like cucumber, tomato, lettuce and bell peppers,” says Eli.

Do you work from home and don’t need to pack your sandwiches? You could try making an open face sandwich, which means using half the bread.

“For a lighter spread, opt for mashed avocado, hummus, tahini, and a drizzle of olive oil over full-fat mayonnaise or butter,” adds Eli.

Be sure to add a protein source as well to help keep you full longer.

Try shredded chicken or other meat (leftovers work well), sliced ​​tuna or boiled eggs.