Friday, June 01, 2012
Tuesday, September 23, 2008 Perriwinkle asks

Q: Good carbs, bad carbs?

My doctor has told me to reduce my carb intake to improve my triglycerides.  I already know which are the bad carbs (donuts, cakes, cookies, etc.) but I also like oatmeal and whole wheat bread and beans, which also have plenty of carbs.  I do not want to try the South Beach or Atkins diets so I'm at a loss as how to eat the good foods and still help my triglycerides.  Any advice is appreciated.  I am not diabetic.

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9/24/08 5:13pm

Hi Perriwinkle,

 

When it comes to lowering triglycerides, you often have to implement strategies similar to a diabetic diet, which means carbohydrates in moderation.

 

Definitely select whole grain breads, cereal (oatmeal is a good choice), pastas, and beans (good high fiber and protein source).  Lowering triglycerides does not mean you need to eliminate carbohydrates, but you do need to eat them in moderation and balance them with high fiber and protein.  Protein helps slow the breakdown of carbohydrates, preventing blood sugar spikes.  So, if you have toast in the morning for breakfast, choose whole grain toast (extra fiber) and top with peanut butter (protein and omega 3 fatty acids).

 

Moderation is the bottom line.  Don't eat 3 cups of whole grain pasta at one meal, but cut back to 1 cup with some protein and vegetables to make your meal more balanced and have less impact on your triglyceride levels.

 

All the best,

 

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN

The Heart of Health - Heart Health and Weight Loss Tips

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By Perriwinkle— Last Modified: 12/19/10, First Published: 09/23/08