you need them but not too many

YOU NEED THEM, JUST NOT TOO MANY

by Janis Jibrin, R.D., Best Life Lead Nutritionist

Carbohydrates have become the ultimate no-no in weight loss plans. But carbs are also necessary for proper nutrition as they supply glucose, which the body uses for fuel. For effective weight loss you need to keep complex carbs in check, such as potatoes, rice, bread, pasta, and even vegetables like corn and peas. Here's a quick guideline to determine how many complex carbs you need per meal and what are the healthiest sources:

How Much:
About five to six servings daily for women on a weight-loss plan. Men, six to seven servings.

Suggested Pattern:
•

Two servings at breakfast (i.e. 160 calories worth of cereal or two slices of toast, or half a large bagel, etc.).

One or two servings at lunch (One to two servings at dinner. (In other words, if you have two servings at lunch, just have one at dinner.)Try and eat all (or mainly) whole grains, such as oatmeal, whole-wheat and bran-based cereals, 100-percent whole-wheat bread or crackers, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta. They're healthier and more slimming than their white flour counterparts One to two servings at dinner. (In other words, if you have two servings at lunch, just have one at dinner.)