What's the Difference Between Simple and Complex Carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are divided into two types, simple and complex. The classification is based on the chemical structure and reflects how quickly sugar is digested and absorbed. Simple carbohydrates are also called simple sugars and are chemically made of one or two sugars. A simple sugar can be just what the name implies, the sugar in your sugar bowl. Things like candy, syrups, and soda pop are also straightforward examples of simple carbs. They are absorbed quickly -- just think how fast sugar-based candy melts in your mouth. Simple carbs also include foods such as fruit and milk. These are better sources of simple carbs because they contain vitamins and fiber, and also important nutrients that your body needs, like calcium. Complex carbohydrates are also known as starches and are made of three or more linked sugars. Grains such as bread, pasta, oatmeal and rice are complex carbs, as well as some vegetables like broccoli, corn legumes such as kidney beans and chick peas. They take the longest to digest.

Pledge to go meatless on Mondays for your health

I've been meatless for over 3 months, not just Mondays!


 Study after study is revealing the harmful effects of eating red meat. From clogged arteries to diabetes to the national obesity crisis, it's becoming clear that red meat can actually kill us. Red meat is a high-saturated fat food that can increase risks for heart disease and has been linked to premature death. Replacing red meat with healthy foods rich in polyunsaturated fats can cut the risk of cardiovascular disease by 19%. 

If your meals have traditionally revolved around an animal protein centerpiece, at first it can be challenging to go meatless. Check out the following resources for inspiration.


-Try a search on Punchfork.com (http://punchfork.com/), a food blog search engine with vegan and vegetarian search filters. 
-Bookmark the Meatless Mondays site (http://www.meatlessmonday.com/) for frequently-updated meatless recipes, and articles and facts on cutting down on meat. 
-Check out the Humane Society’s Meat-Free Meals guide (http://www.humanesociety.org/assets/pdfs/publications/guide_to_meat-free_meals_2011.pdf) for tips and a guide to eating out in restaurants, meat free.

1. 04.22.12

   Update #1

   Thank you for pledging to go Meatless on Mondays! You've taken an important step toward health and a longer life. Remember, tomorrow will be your first Meatless Monday. If you need inspiration for meatless meals, check out a few ideas from The Healthy Foodie blog:
   
   
   Breakfast - Apple Raisin Goat Cheese Oatmeal:http://thehealthyfoodie.com/2012/02/05/apple-raisin-and-goat-cheese-oatmeal/
   
   
   Lunch - Creamy Avocado Pasta:http://thehealthyfoodie.com/2011/12/05/creamy-avocado-pasta/

   
   

   Dinner - Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie:http://thehealthyfoodie.com/2011/04/25/vegetarian-shepherds-pie/ 
   
   
   It will be easier if you invite your friends and family to take the pledge with you. Click here to send them an invitation:http://www.causes.com/causes/621655-health-and-wellness/actions/1643643?open_inviter=true

Thanksgiving video by Leonard Dozier.