There is an endless amount of controversy around carbs and how much we should eat. It seems like every single person I talk to has an opinion that’s based on bits and pieces of information that have been gathered from newspapers, fitness magazines, online sources, and advice from friends.

One thing that always surprises me is that most people don’t realize that carbohydrates don’t just equal bread, pasta, and rice. There are carbohydrates in almost everything you eat.

If you can limit the amount of carbs you get from processed sources (bread, pasta, rice, crackers) and get them instead from whole food sources (beans, lentils, sweet potatoes, squash, beets, fruits, and veggies) you’ll probably start losing weight right away.

The main reason for this is that whole food sources of carbohydrates are way higher in fibre and protein which help to slow digestion, making you feel fuller for longer and providing you with way more nutrients than a slice of bread or bowl of pasta

Sound easy? I think it sounds easy, but I can tell you from experience that most of my clients really struggle to make this one little change. The reason is this: Processed carbs are very convenient while whole food carbs take some time to prepare. It’s way easier to grab a slice of bread than it is to make lentil soup.

The trick is to be prepared. Fruit and veggies need to be washed and cut up as soon as you get home from the grocery store. If you make a bean soup make lots and store some in the freezer so you’ll have something to eat on days you don’t have time to prepare healthy meals.