It appears you have not yet registered for SparkPeople. To get a free nutrition and fitness plan and join our community click here....

 


Ask the Expert


Q What is the difference between simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates?

A Simple carbohydrates are absorbed very quickly, which causes your blood sugar to rise rapidly, leaving you feeling tired, hungry, and craving more sugar shortly after you’ve eaten. Simple carbs are mainly added sugars, which have very little nutritional value. They are considered "empty" calories. Types of simple carbs are soda, white bread, white rice, many breakfast cereals, candies, high fructose corn syrup, etc. Fruit is also considered a simple carb, but it is a naturally occurring sugar that is packed with many nutrients. Strawberries, raspberries and blueberries are at the low end of the spectrum of carbs with fruit.

Complex carbohydrates (whole grains) take a while to absorb, resulting in a steady blood sugar levels, which allows you to feel "full" longer and gives you lasting energy. Whole grains are packed with nutrients, especially fiber. "Whole" wheat or grain breads and cereal, oats, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, beans, peas and vegetables are considered wholesome foods.
 
 
Add This to My SparkFavorites


Back to all questions

Find Local Gyms
 


SparkPeople Sponsors help keep the site free!









 
     
Today On SparkPeople
Featured Article
Winter Workout Safety Tips

Baby, it's cold outside--sometimes too cold! Learn which weather conditions every outdoor exerciser should avoid, and the signs that it's time to bring your routine indoors.

Read More
MessageBoard Hot Topics
Top Searches
Squat with front shoulder raises
A total body workout in one move!
SparkRecipes: Featured Recipe
Stepfanie's Easy Poached Eggs and Pasta
Submitted By: SP_STEPF

I can't get enough of this easy recipe; I've been making it for dinner a couple of nights a week. It's ready in 15 minutes!

The still-runny egg yolk adds a creaminess to the sauce and perfectly mixes with the spinach.

If you want to spruce up the jarred sauce, add a 1/2 t oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

I sometimes swap broccoli (fresh or frozen) or sliced zucchini for the spinach.

If I have it on hand, I add a dollop (1/2 ounce) of goat cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan (calories not included). Full Recipe

 Search SparkRecipes
Activity Stats
  • Calories Burned: 7,548,833,808
  • Pounds Lost: 9,989,653
  • Cups Water Drank: 230,869,313
  • SparkAmerica Minutes: 1,112,085,056
Join SparkPeople For Free!
Get a personalized diet and fitness plan, great newsletters, post to our message boards, and even your own personal SparkPage!

Join Now For Free!