Understanding the difference between carbohydrates is a key skill. It will help you feel full longer, have more stable energy, and effectively manage your "Carb Servings" in the app.
Carbohydrates Are Not the Enemy
First, let's be clear: carbs are the main source of fuel that your body and brain prefer.
When you eat foods from the starch, fruit, or milk groups, your body breaks them down into sugar for energy. Cutting out carbs completely is not a sustainable or healthy long-term solution. The key is to choose the right kind.
Understanding "Good Carbs" (Complex Carbs)
Think of "Good Carbs" as a slow-burning log of firewood. They release energy gradually and steadily.
This is because they are high in fiber, which forces your body to take its time digesting and absorbing them. The result? You feel full longer, and your blood sugar remains stable without a big spike.
Where to find them:
Brown rice, Rice-berry, whole-wheat bread
Oats, corn, and other unrefined grains
Taro, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin
Watching Out for "Bad Carbs" (Simple Carbs)
Think of "Bad Carbs" as fast-burning paper. They ignite quickly and are gone in a flash.
These carbs are usually refined, with most of the fiber stripped away. Your body absorbs them almost instantly, turning them into sugar. This causes a rapid blood sugar spike, followed by a crash. This crash is what makes you feel hungry again and crave even more sweets.
Where to find them:
Sodas, sweet teas, and fruit juices
Boba milk tea, candy, and pastries, sugary cereals
How to Choose Your Carbs in Real Life (and in the App)
Choosing good carbs isn't hard. Just use these simple tricks:
Go for darker colors: Choose brown rice over white rice, or whole-wheat bread over white bread.
Eat the whole-food form: Choose a whole orange (with fiber) instead of orange juice (no fiber).
Read the label: Always check for hidden sugars in drinks, sauces, and snacks.
From now on, when you log a meal in our app, just take a moment to notice: where are your "Carb Servings" coming from? Are they from brown rice (a "good carb") or from a milk tea (a "bad carb")?
The app will help you see the big picture so you can gradually improve the quality of your choices. Choosing good carbs will keep you full and energized, making it much easier and more sustainable to stay within your "Calorie Goal."