Carbohydrates Make You Smile

Evidence suggests that we don't need carbs to survive. We can subsist on fat and proteins. so long as we are consuming the entire animal and not just going to Safeway for chicken breast and turkey thighs.  But you know what? What kind of person just wants to survive? We want to thrive. We want to live and be happy. And most of all we want the energy to be active. 

Folks who live on just fat and protein (according to the study) don't have the same endurance or energy levels as a person who includes moderate carbohydrates in her diet.  This have to do with the fact that there are vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in carbohydrates that play an imperative role in our growth and energy levels.

Carbs not only make you happier mentally, they make it easier for your body to use fats and proteins. Amazing right. So the next time somebody tries to carb shame you, go ahead and give them the bird. Here are some great ways to incorporate carbs into your diet and be happy.

Pizza Night
Make pizza a healthy part of your life by doing it every Friday evening right after you finished up a long hike or after a night walk around town. Whether you choose to have a slice of pizza with or without cheese, remember to have one piece. 

The best way to control this is to hit up your favorite by-the-slice place in town. Grab a slice of pizza and maybe a small salad and dig in without a shred of guilt. If you don't have one of those wonderful places, then get make a pizza at home (or order one!), dish out the slices, and then pack away the rest before sitting down to eat. Or freeze it. You are less likely to grab a second piece if it is frigid in the ice box.

Eat Fruit and Veggies and Be Happy
Nobody ever said that carbohydrates must come up from grains. Enjoy your daily dose of carbohydrates from steamed broccoli or a fresh bowl of berries. Either way, you are getting a delicious serving of food that will bring up your spirits.

Watch Your Portions
It doesn't hurt to say that watching your portions is important for any type of food. Just remember that if you are going to eat grains such as corn, wheat, oats, etc...then you need to be mindful of your portions. For taco night, stick to 2-3 small corn tortillas or a one medium soft taco-sized flour tortilla. Eat just one burger with a bun. 

Measure out your rice, oats and pasta to stick to appropriate servings. Too much at once is never a good thing. It will lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or undesired weight gain.

Go ahead and munch on those fish tacos...just don't eat more than you should.