Carbohydrates are one of the essential nutrients our body needs to function properly. They are found in various forms, such as sugars, fiber, and starch. Vegetables are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates that our body can use for energy.
However, some vegetables are more carb-heavy than others, making them a great choice for people following a low-carb diet. In this article, we’ve put together a visual guide of carb-heavy veggies to help you make informed decisions about your diet.
Sweet Potatoes:
Sweet potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins A and C. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help fight against inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
A medium-sized sweet potato contains around 23 grams of carbs, which makes it a great option for people who want to add healthy carbs to their diet.
Beets:
Beets are a fantastic source of healthy carbs, fiber, and antioxidants. They are also low in calories, making them a great choice for people who want to lose weight.
A cup of cooked beets contains around 16 grams of carbs, which makes it a great option for people following a low-carb diet.
Corn:
Corn is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is also high in carbs, with one cup containing around 30 grams of carbs.
Corn can still be a great part of a balanced diet, but it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and incorporate it into a well-rounded meal plan.
Acorn Squash:
Acorn squash is a great source of healthy carbs, vitamin C, and potassium. It’s also lower in calories than other winter squashes, such as butternut squash.
A cup of cooked acorn squash contains around 30 grams of carbs, which makes it a great option for people who want to add healthy carbs to their diet.
Peas:
Peas are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, they are also high in carbs, with one cup of cooked peas containing around 25 grams of carbs.
Peas can still be a great addition to a balanced diet, but it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and incorporate them into a well-rounded meal plan.
Carrots:
Carrots are a fantastic source of healthy carbs, fiber, and vitamins A and C. They are also low in calories, making them an ideal choice for people who want to lose weight.
One medium-sized carrot contains around 5 grams of carbs, making it a great option for people on a low-carb diet.
Butternut Squash:
Butternut squash is rich in healthy carbs, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also lower in calories than other winter squashes, such as pumpkin.
A cup of cooked butternut squash contains around 22 grams of carbs, which makes it a great option for people who want to add healthy carbs to their diet.
Bell Peppers:
Bell peppers are a great source of healthy carbs, fiber, and vitamins A and C. They are also low in calories, making them ideal for people who want to lose weight.
One medium-sized bell pepper contains around 6 grams of carbs, making it a great option for people on a low-carb diet.
Potatoes:
Potatoes are a staple food in many households and a great source of healthy carbs, fiber, and potassium. However, they are also high in carbs, with a medium-sized potato containing around 33 grams of carbs.
Potatoes can still be a part of a healthy diet, but it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes and incorporate them into a well-rounded meal plan.
Onions:
Onions are a flavorful and nutritious vegetable that is rich in healthy carbs, fiber, and antioxidants. One medium-sized onion contains around 11 grams of carbs, making it a great option for people who want to add healthy carbs to their diet.
Conclusion:
Vegetables are an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates that our body needs to function correctly. However, some vegetables are more carb-heavy than others.
By incorporating carb-heavy veggies into your diet, you can add healthy carbs to your meals while still following a low-carb diet. Be mindful of portion sizes and incorporate a well-rounded meal plan to make the most of your carb-heavy veggies.