I am trying very had to be careful with the carbs.* However, how do you track or differentiate between the refined carbs like breads/cereals etc and the natural carbs like in fruits?* Is there anytype of formula?* I know it must make a difference, doesn't it?
*

If you've ever heard of the Glycemic index (it's used in a lot of commercials these days), it's kind of a measure of good vs. bad.

But you don't really need that.* Common sense is all you need
Best carbs
*** Green Veggies (or any veggies really)
Next best (any of these)
*** Fruits**
*** Beans, legumes
*** Whole grain bread (made from whole gains, it will have A LOT of fiber)

Bad Carbs* (Minimize or avoid)
*** Bread, rice, pasta (anything made from bleached flour that is low in fiber & nutrients

Worst Carbs* (Minimize or avoid)
*** Sugar & anything with a lot of sugar, fructose, sucrose...etc
*** (eg Sodas, Latte's, Mocha's, Ice Cream....etc).* You get the idea
*** Alcohol (alcohol acts very much like a 'bad' carb even though it isn't really a carb)

Hi Renee,
I agree with Dan. Common sense is ur best bet. I too am watching carbs, since this is what I crave the most. I read labels and check ingredients too. You might also check fiber content because it can be taken off carb totals. An example of this would be whole grain breads and cereals..those that have a fiber content of 4 or more can be subtracted from carb totals and make ur points for total carbs for the day less. But again, I agree with Dan you dont have to do that but it helps when you know that fiber slows down the digestion of food and keeps ya full longer. I just try to stick to good carbs as Dan mentioned and make it no more than 3 servings a day of grains, cereals etc. We are all in this together and we are here to help each other and keep each other moving in the right direction. We all learn from each other too. I ask lots of questions and give my opinion too. Feel free to ask whatever is on your mind.
Good Luck,
*
Annita

sparkpeople.com is also a great resource and it helps you track the breakdown of your foods.* Dan gave you the right idea for how to look at things.* I think the more natural they are, the better they are for you.* Like...whole grain bread is better than white.* Fruits better than cracker jacks!