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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.
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SparkPeople's 500-Calorie Thanksgiving Feast
