Unhealthy carbohydrates are typically those that are highly processed, contain added sugars, lack fiber and nutrients, and contribute to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Consuming these types of carbs in excess can lead to weight gain, metabolic issues, and increased risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Here's a list of unhealthy carbs to be mindful of:
Refined grains:
White bread
White rice
White pasta
Pastries
Cakes
Cookies
Muffins
Doughnuts
Sugary cereals:
Breakfast cereals with high sugar content
Flavored instant oatmeal packets
Granola with added sugars
Processed snacks and desserts:
Candy bars
Sugary snack cakes
Sweetened yogurt (especially those with added sugars)
Ice cream
Fruit-flavored snacks
Packaged cookies
Sweetened fruit juices and fruit drinks
Sugar-sweetened beverages:
Regular soda
Fruit punch
Sweetened iced tea
Energy drinks
Sports drinks
Sweetened coffee drinks (e.g., flavored lattes)
Highly processed foods:
Fast food items (burgers, fries, chicken nuggets)
Frozen meals with high carbohydrate content and added sugars
Packaged snacks like potato chips, pretzels, and crackers (often high in refined grains and added sugars)
Sweet spreads and toppings:
Jams and jellies with added sugars
Honey
Maple syrup
Chocolate spreads
Alcoholic beverages:
Beer (contains carbohydrates from malt)
Sweetened cocktails and mixed drinks
Sugary liqueurs
