What are refined and processed carbs, are there good carbs and bad carbs and which should I avoid to lose weight?
CARBS are a stodgy favourite for us all, and even in the spring a big bowl of pasta or a thick slice of bread sounds just as wonderful as it does when curled up from the cold.
But when it comes to delicious, comforting carbs, what are the good ones and bad ones? And what are refined carbs anyway? We've got the lowdown...
What are processed carbs and refined carbs?
Processed and refined carbs are basically the same thing.
It's actually easier to define un-refined carbs, which are basically any sugar or starch source that you would find in nature, so that's fruits, potatoes or grains.
Refined or processed carbs are grain-based foods that have had the bran and germ removed during processing.
In this process they often lose other elements with nutritional value like vitamin B, healthy oils and fat-soluble vitamins.
These processed carbohydrates are rapidly absorbed into the blood causing big spikes in energy levels.
Are there good carbs and bad carbs?
There are a lot of contrasting reports in the media about carbs and whether or not they're good for you.
Effectively everything is good in moderation - and it's fine to have a small amount of something you enjoy.
But when people speak about "good carbs" they generally mean unrefined carbs like vegetables, whole fruits, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains and potatoes.
When people talk about "bad carbs" they generally mean refined (or processed carbs) like sugary drinks, white bread, pastries, biscuits, cakes, chocolate and sweets, chips, crisps, white rice.
In summary, carbs that appear in nature (unrefined carbs) are generally better for you.
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Should you avoid carbs to lose weight?
The key to losing weight is enjoying everything in moderation.
It's not about spending a few weeks avoiding bread, it's about adjusting your food in a way that you would be happy maintaining for life.
For a lot of people that means keeping all food groups but being careful not to over-indulge in any one thing.
Refined carbs contain a lot of starchy carbohydrates, which can provide the body with energy needed for exercise and for daily activities of living.
But, if you're trying to eat a healthier diet and lose some weight, it's best to limit your intake of these highly-processed foods.
Here we explain how many carbohydrates you should be eating a day to help you find the right balance.