Low-carb Foods: Worth the Price?

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Low-carb Foods: Worth the Price?Low-carb foods seem to be everywhere and are now options in almost every food category, from breakfast to dessert to snack foods. While "good" carbohydrates (whole grains, beans, vegetables, nuts, fruits and low-fat dairy products) are good for you, low-carb foods are not always healthier - or healthy at all. Many have unhealthy trans or saturated fats, and can be as high or higher in calories than the original versions. Plus, they can carry a hefty price tag for little difference. Tomato sauce, for instance, is already a low-carbohydrate food; paying more for a low-carb version could simply be a waste of money. Food manufacturers reduce carbohydrate counts in a variety of ways: adding more water; removing sugars and starches used as filler; using artificial sweeteners instead of sugar; or replacing white flour with soy or wheat gluten (typically a good move, except there may be additional processing and additives used to improve flavor and texture). My recommendation if you are watching your weight: look at the total calories and fat, not just the carbs in foods, and opt for the healthier "good" carbs. Learn more about eating well in the Healthy Kitchen on DrWeil.com.

 

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