The skinny on bad carbs, health and swimsuit season

Good carbs are in their all natural state and unprocessed or altered by man or machine!

Green vegetables are the ultimate good carb foods. In fact, most fibrous leafy vegetables and many fruits are considered among the best carbs to eat. Beans and legumes are also generally included on the “good carbs” list, as are many raw, unsalted nuts and seeds in moderation. Finally, whole grain foods including wholegrain breads and cereals (without sugar).

Good carbs are high in fiber which helps you stay full longer (and avoid overeating), provides sustained energy, lowers cholesterol levels, and helps to remove toxins from the body. High in nutrients: natural vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other phytonutrients promote health and help to prevent chronic disease.

Bad carbs are refined, processed carbohydrate foods that have had all or most of their natural fiber and nutrients taken out in order to make them taste better and are more consumer friendly. Large amounts of empty calories and little or no nutritional value which in turn leads to extra bodyfat. Yuck.

I would challenge you to take a long hard look at what you are eating and feeding your children in a week.

Most baked goods, white breads, pastas, snack foods, processed foods and candies fit into this category.

Bleached, enriched white flour, white sugar and an array of artificial flavorings, colorings, and preservatives are the most common ingredients used to make unhealthy bad carb foods.

Most of the processed carbs we eat wreak havoc on our natural hormone levels. Insulin production, especially, is “thrown out of whack” as the body attempts to process the huge amounts of starches and simple sugars contained in a typical “bad carb”-based meal.

This leads to dramatic fluctuations in blood glucose levels, a big reason why you often feel lethargic after eating high-sugar, unhealthy meals.

Obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and other long-term problems arise from consuming an abundance of processed carbs and unhealthy trans-fats found in so many foods. You always have a choice in what you chose to eat and how you feel.

Stay away from bad carbs and you will look great in your swimsuit this summer!

Another great find for your summer “must have” is the no-show active top. If you are sick of worrying about accidental exposure while trying to enjoy your active lifestyle, the no-show active top is the way to go.

Stay worryfree and get back to doing what you love.

It is designed to be worn over your bikini top during activity to provide the extra protection you need, without wearing a bulky T-shirt.

The no-show active top is a swim top cover up that provides coverage and support like a sports bra and is fashionable like a bikini swimsuit top.

The straps are similar to those of a traditional bikini top, so you won’t have to worry about unsightly tan lines like those from a sports bra, one piece swimsuit, or rash guard.

Natalie Dreger is a certified fitness professional and can be reached at nataliedreger.com.