###### tags: `plan-smart-eat-real` # Course Video #6 ### Carbohydrates --- Carbs aren't the devil. --- I generally like to lump carbs and fats together because chances are at some point in your life, one or both of these were considered the culprit of weight gain. However, once i started outlining this video, it was clear that I just have too much to say on both of these macronutrients! For now, let's just talk carbs. The old idea that eliminating carbs will lead to weight just melting away is false and even dangerous. Here's the truth... Those fad diets didn't work then and they don't work now. Both of them were elimination diets, and when ever you remove an entire type of food from your diet, of course you'll lose weight. Not because of the removal of said food, but because it cuts your calories. Carbs are important for your body. Carbohydrates are the prefered source of fuel for your brain. Healthy carbs are a great source of fiber. Glycogen, how the body stores sugar, is also a fast way to fuel your body for exercise and/or day to day living. Generally, 40-60% of your diet will come from carbodrates. When it comes to carbs, what's important is eating the right carbs. The carbs that serve a beneficial purpose to your body. Real, natural sources that are void of processed and/or added sugar. Aim for complete vs simple carbs (most of the time) Here are my 10 favorite healthy carbs: 1. Oats 2. Quinoa 3. Rice 4. Vegetables: insoluble fiber 5. Starch Vegetables: potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, etc 6. Fruit: banana/apples/berries 7. Beans: Soluble fiber 8. Barley 9. Rye 10. Sourdough Bread --- And fat? Fat is essential for balancing hormones, keeping satiated, regulating temperature, supports immune health and is important for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Does eating fat, make you gain fat? NO. Eating too much fat can lead to eating too many calories. And that's the culprit.