Top 5 Clean Carbs for Your Body
Carbs can get a bad reputation when it comes to losing weight – but not all of them are bad. In fact, some carbs can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Ramses Principe is a fitness entrepreneur and hybrid athlete who regularly shares health hacks on TikTok. A favorite topic of his? Meal prepping and choosing healthy foods to fuel your workouts. In one video, he reveals the carbs he relies on for energy. "Top five sources of clean carbs," he says in the video. We also asked The Diet Diva, Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian, to weigh in on his clean carb recommendations.
Oatmeal
"Number one, it's got to be my go-to every single day for breakfast, and that's oatmeal. You could cook this overnight. You want to eat it hot or cold. This is a great source of clean carbs for you to refuel, especially if they're a tough morning workout," says Principe. Collingwood agrees that oatmeal is an excellent whole-grain carb. "It is really versatile with hot or cold or even added to a protein smoothie," she says. However, she does note that oatmeal doesn't have a lot of protein, "so make sure you have protein with it," she recommends.
Potatoes
Next up, potatoes. "Whether you're looking for white potatoes or sweet potatoes, they both have great benefits for you, and they're a great source of healthy, clean carbs," says Principe. "Potatoes often get a bad reputation, but they are actually quite nutrient-dense and low in calories," agrees Collingwood. "It's when we fry them or drown them in butter and cheese that the calories add up." And don't discriminate when it comes to color. "White potatoes are also high in antioxidants, so don't just focus on sweet potatoes," she says.
Rice
"Don't be afraid of eating rice," says Principe. "If you're someone like me who is always on the go, I suggest you guys get this to-go bag, Seeds of Change microwavable rice packages." Collingwood is also a fan of Seeds of Change rice packets. "We use a ton of the brown rice/quinoa with garlic blend. They are super easy (90 secs on microwave) and nutritious," she notes.
Pasta
"Pasta is my go-to for the night before a tough morning workout. I highly suggest you guys give them a try," says Principe. "Pasta can be an excellent source of carbs," agrees Collingwood. "Just focus on portion control and combine with proteins. You can try some of the whole grain pastas or those made with beans like edamame, black beans, or chickpeas for more fiber and protein."
Beans
"Beans. Not only are they good for protein, but they're also great for your carbs," says Principe. "This is a great meal to add into your lunch or dinner, and I highly recommend you start adding more beans into your daily calorie intake." Collingwood couldn't agree more. "Legumes (beans and peas and lentils) are one of the most nutritious foods on the planet, as evidenced in many research studies as well as a commonality in the diets of people who live the longest," she says. And, you can use canned beans for convenience. "Just drain and rinse to remove the extra sodium."
💪🔥Body Booster: Eating clean carbs won't weigh down – they can fuel your workouts.
