High Carb is linked with a higher likelihood of being overweight. However, not all carbs are unhealthy for you. High-processed junk foods in sugar and refined grains are definitely unhealthy while many high-carb fiber-rich foods are super healthy and weight loss-friendly foods.
Here are 11 high-carb foods that are incredibly healthy and help you to lose weight.
#1 Quinoa
Quinoa is an incredibly nutritious seed that is eaten like a grain. Cooked quinoa is 21.3% carbs making it a high-carb food. However, it is also an excellent source of protein and fiber that helps in weight loss. Quinoa also contains many minerals and plant compounds that are linked with health benefits including improved blood sugar control.
It does not contain any gluten that’s why it is the best alternative to wheat for those who follow a gluten-free diet. Quinoa is also very filling due to its higher fiber and protein content. For this reason, it can help to reduce weight.
#2 Oats
Oats are one of the healthiest whole grain food that is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Oats contain 66% carbs and are also rich in a powerful soluble fiber known as oat beta-glucan. They also contain a sufficient amount of protein and fiber. Different studies show that oats can reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.
Consumption of oats can also help to lower blood sugar levels in people with type2 diabetes. Furthermore, oats give you feelings of satiety and can help you to lose weight.
#3 Bananas
Bananas are the world’s most popular fruits that are made up of about 23% carbs. They are rich in potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Their potassium content helps to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
Bananas are also high in healthy fibers that reduce the appetite and make the body burn fat. The indigestible fibers present in bananas block the carbohydrates from being absorbed by the body. Hence the body burns fat as energy instead of carbohydrates.
#4 Oranges
Oranges are mainly composed of water and contain 11.8% carbs. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and some B vitamins. In addition, oranges also contain citric acid, antioxidants, and many beneficial plant compounds.
Oranges are low in calories, full of nutrients, and are very filling which can help you burn belly fat. They also help form healthy skin and lower the risks of several diseases such as improving heart health and preventing kidney stones and anemia.
#5 Kidney Beans
Kidney beans belong to the legume family. Cooked kidney beans contain 22.8% carbs in the form of starches and fiber. They are also abundant in protein, vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. Kidney bean also contains antioxidants like anthocyanins and isoflavones. Kidney beans are an amazing addition to your weight loss diet as they are rich in protein and fiber contributing to feelings of fullness and a lower calorie intake. They also help to control blood sugar levels and reduce the risks of colon cancer.
#6 Chickpeas
Chickpeas also belong to the legume family. Cooked chickpeas provide 27.4% carbs, 8% of which are fiber. They provide many vitamins and minerals, including iron, phosphorus, and B-vitamins. Chickpeas are beneficial for heart and digestive health. Chickpeas are a superfood for weight loss because they are loaded with fiber, which keeps you feeling fuller for a longer time.
#7 Blueberries
Blueberries are super delicious food due to their high amounts of plant compounds and antioxidants. They mostly consist of water and contain about 14.5% carbs. Blueberries are also rich in many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. Studies found that blueberries act as a safeguard for your body from oxidative damage.
Recent studies suggest that blueberries influence genes that regulate fat-burning and storage, helping reduce abdominal fat and lower cholesterol. Eating blueberries are linked with aiding in losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight.
#8 Grapefruit
Grapefruits belong to a citrus family that contains about 9% carbs and have high amounts of several vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. Grapefruit is a weight loss-friendly food because it contains many properties linked with weight loss, especially its fiber content, which helps to increase feelings of fullness and reduce calorie intake.
Moreover, the consumption of grapefruit can help to prevent kidney stones, lower cholesterol levels and protect against colon cancer.
#9 Apples
Apples are super healthy, delicious and the most famous fruit in the world. They are available in different colors, sizes, and flavors. Apples contain 13–15% carbs and are a sufficient source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and healthy plant compounds. Apples have many properties that can promote feelings of fullness which can help in weight loss by reducing overall calorie intake. Eating apples are beneficial for health in many ways such as help to control blood sugar levels and reduce the risks of heart diseases.
#10 Beetroots
Beetroots are purple root vegetables and are also known as beets, garden beet, red beet, dinner beet, or golden beet. Beets contain about 8–10% carbs and are loaded with vitamins, minerals, potent antioxidants, and plant compounds.
Beetroots are low in calories, high in water and fiber which aid in weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing appetite. Beets are rich in inorganic nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in our bodies. Nitric oxide helps to lower blood pressure and also reduces the risks of several diseases. Beetroot juice is also abundant in inorganic nitrates and is often used to increase physical performance during endurance exercises.
#11 Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutritious root vegetable. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of fiber, provitamin A (from beta-carotene), vitamin C, and potassium. They provide about 18–21% carbs. The high fiber content of sweet potatoes helps in weight loss by providing your feelings of fullness for a longer time and hence prevents you from overeating. Sweet potatoes also contain antioxidants which help to reduce oxidative damage and lower the risks of many other diseases.