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What Are Carbohydrates?

What Are Carbohydrates?

How to Choose the Best Carbs for a Low-GI Diet

When it comes to managing weight effectively, carbohydrates often get a bad reputation. But the truth is, not all carbs are created equal! Understanding how to choose the right carbs and portion them correctly can make a huge difference in your weight loss journey.

What Are Carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients (along with protein and fat) that provide energy for the body. They are found in many foods, from fruits and vegetables to grains, legumes, and dairy products. Carbs are broken down into glucose (sugar), which the body uses for energy.

Foods High in Carbs

Carbohydrates can be found in a wide variety of foods, including:

  • Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole wheat bread
  • Refined grains: White bread, white rice, pasta, pastries
  • Vegetables: Potatoes, corn, sweet potatoes, beets
  • Fruits: Bananas, apples, grapes, oranges
  • Legumes: Lentils, beans, chickpeas
  • Dairy: Milk, yogurt
  • Sugary foods: Soda, candy, cakes, and cookies

How Carbs Are Metabolized in the Body

When you eat carbohydrates, your body breaks them down into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. This triggers the release of insulin, a hormone that helps transport glucose into cells for energy. If too much glucose is consumed, excess is stored as fat. This is why choosing the right type and amount of carbs is crucial for weight loss.

How Carbs Affect Weight Gain

Carbohydrates with a high glycemic index (GI) cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to increased insulin production. Over time, excess insulin can promote fat storage, making weight loss more difficult. On the other hand, low-GI carbs release energy slowly, keeping you full longer and reducing cravings.

The Right Carb Portions for Weight Loss

Portion control is key when it comes to carbs. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Whole grains: ½ cup cooked (e.g., brown rice, quinoa, oats)
  • Starchy vegetables: ½ cup cooked (e.g., sweet potatoes, butternut squash)
  • Legumes: ½ cup cooked (e.g., lentils, beans)
  • Fruit: 1 small piece or ½ cup sliced

The Best Low-GI Carbs for Weight Loss

For effective weight loss on a low-GI meal plan, opt for:

  • Whole grains like quinoa, barley, and oats
  • Legumes like chickpeas, lentils, and black beans
  • Non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and bell peppers
  • Low-GI fruits like berries, apples, and pears
  • Nuts and seeds for added fiber and protein

Supporting Your Low-GI Diet with Manna Health Products

Adding the right supplements can help keep your blood sugar stable and support your weight loss goals:

  • Manna Blood Sugar Support: Helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings.
  • Manna Shake: A nutrient-dense, low-GI meal replacement for a balanced diet.
  • Manna F.A.T. Way to Go: Supports metabolism and fat loss.

Final Thoughts

Carbohydrates are not the enemy of weight loss—choosing the right carbs and eating them in moderation is the key. By focusing on whole, low-GI carbs and pairing them with Manna Health Products, you can fuel your body efficiently while keeping your weight loss on track. Stay tuned for next week’s post on Proteins and Weight Management!

Low GI Shake

All the needed nutrients to replace any meal of the day

Manna Low GI Shake

Our shake is formulated to allow you to skip a meal without losing the needed nutrients and energy. It also helps manage your blood sugar levels.

What do customers say about Manna Low GI Shake?

Satisfied Customers

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I love my shakes and it keeps me full – sometimes I add fruit even Oats or Chia seeds – also delicious on its own!

— Verna

This product really keeps the hunger under control.

— Maria van Niekerk

Manna shakes are really great! my breakfast and lunch go to meals including weekends. No more cravings or binge eating and I feel good

— Jackie van der Merwe

I really enjoy this shake, its filling, tastes good and keeps you going longer between meals. Great stuff; great product.

— Frank

I normally have a sweet tooth, but since I started to use Manna Shake no cravings and especially no cravings for sugar. Already after a week could feel a major difference on how My clothes fit-Manna shake works!

— Hennie

The best shake, keeps me full of energy and I love what the fibre does to me. Pleasant to drink.

— Lily

Excellent product! Use it as breakfast, lunch and before I cycle. Do not crave chocolates or any sweets as I used to. Provides good energy when I cycle long distances. Will keep on using the shake.

— Stella

I love this great tasting shake!! It makes me feel healthy and it stabilizes my blood sugar. Would highly recommend it to anyone!

— Jolene