COMPLEX UNREFINED CARBOHYDRATES
Carbohydrates are our body’s first choice for fuel, and it’s important to include them in our plant-powered diet. The challenge is that over 90% of the carbs consumed by most people today are highly refined, highly processed, and mostly in the form of white flour and sugar. If your goal is to enjoy excellent health and perform well physically and mentally, then we encourage you to stay away from them! Personally, we get almost all of our carbohydrates from fruit, which is a simple carbohydrate that requires less work for the body to break down. Once in a while, we include complex carbohydrates from sprouted whole grains, pseudo-grains, pulses, and starchy vegetables. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
Sprouted whole grains are rich in protein, satisfying and offer some essential macronutrients, including the B vitamins, vitamin C, folate, iron, and essential amino acids often lacking in grains, such as lysine. Another benefit of sprouted grains is the fiber content that helps keep blood sugar levels in check and deliver slow-release, steady energy throughout the day.
Pseudograins are not grains in the classic sense; they are seeds, often used in place of conventional grains. Since pseudograins are gluten-free, they are easily digestible and suitable for those who are gluten-intolerant or sensitive to gluten. Other than being a beneficial source of complex carbohydrate, pseodograins also provide high-quality protein, zinc, and B vitamins.
Pulses are part of the legume family (any plants that grow in pods), but the term pulses refers only to the dry edible seeds within the pod. Beans, lentils, chickpeas, and split peas are the most common types of pulses. Pulses are unique because they have distinct health benefits apart from other legumes. Unlike legumes like peanuts and soy, for example, pulses are low in fat and very high in protein and fiber.
Starchy Vegetables Starchy vegetables are an important part of the Plant-powered diet; however, only modest amounts are needed.