Carbohydrates, both complex and simple, are an essential part of a well-rounded, healthy diet. Your body is able to break down the natural components of carbohydrates and convert them to glucose, using it for energy. A carbohydrate diet involves large portions of foods that contain a lot of carbohydrates. Make sure that your eating plan is healthy and that you will get a daily variety of vitamins, minerals, and food groups in what you choose to eat.
Fruits
Fresh and dried fruits are some of the best sources of carbohydrates, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. Fruits contain simple carbs, which are easily broken down by the body to provide quick boosts of energy. Fruit juices are just as carb rich, but Harvard's public health school recommends choosing whole fruits instead because they have more fiber, less sugar and fewer calories.
Some fruits that are good sources of carbs include apples, bananas, grapes, apricots, cherries, dates, figs, mangoes, peaches, prunes and raisins.
Whole Grains
Whole-grain breads, pastas, crackers and wraps are rich in complex carbohydrates, which provide slow-burning, long-lasting energy for the body. The U.S. Health Department sets out guidelines encouraging Americans to eat whole grains for at least half of their daily recommended grain servings. LifeClinic.com recommends cereals, wheat bran and breads that are made with 100 percent whole-wheat flour as a first ingredient. Many packaged products are marketed as containing "whole grains" but are actually made primarily with refined flour. Always check ingredient lists.
Good whole-grain choices for complex carbohydrates are whole-wheat pasta, multigrain breads, high-fiber wheat cerea, and whole-grain bagels or wraps.
Potatoes
Potatoes are healthy starches that provide about 30 g of carbohydrates per serving. To reap the maximum nutritional benefits from potatoes, boil them instead of roasting them. Serve as part of a main dish or with minimal accompaniments. Skip high-fat and high-calorie garnishes such as bacon, sour cream or big pats of butter.
Beans and Legumes
Beans, lentils and other legumes are strong sources of carbohydrates and also have high amounts of fiber, causing you to feel full for a longer amount of time. The U.S. Health Department recommends that people consume at least three to four servings of legumes per week. High-fiber choices include lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans and lima beans.
Vegetables
Though they don't contain as many carbohydrate grams per serving as the other foods on this list, vegetables are a crucial part of a balanced diet and should be eaten daily in combination with other sources of carbs. Carrots, peas, cabbage, beets and cauliflower all have good amounts of carbohydrates and healthy portions of fiber.
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