Thinking of dodging middle-age weight gain? A fresh study hints it might not be about cutting carbs but choosing the right ones.
In a detailed analysis spanning over twenty years and involving nearly 137,000 individuals, U.S. researchers found a pattern: those consuming more whole grains, fruits, and nonstarchy veggies (think broccoli, carrots, and spinach) experienced less weight gain. Conversely, people munching on more refined grains, starchy veggies, and sugary drinks added a few extra pounds.
The insights, freshly out in the BMJ, underscore a crucial point: it’s not about the quantity but the quality of carbs in the diet, shared senior author Walter Willett of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
And if you’re wondering about sugar, well, it’s no friend to your waistline. But, intriguingly, there are even bigger culprits, with starchy items like white bread, peas, corn, and potatoes topping the list.
This isn’t just about weight, either. Prior studies linked quality carbs with reduced risks of certain illnesses, including heart diseases and some cancers.
But the real eye-opener? Foods causing the most weight gain shared a trait: a high glycemic index, meaning they rapidly spike blood sugar levels, pushing the body to store more fat. Many of these foods are also lacking in fiber.
Curious about the ideal foods for weight management?
