A list of carbohydrate foods can help you to seek that not all carbohydrates are equal. Some carbohydrates are actually good for you while others are very bad for you. Choosing good carbohydrates can give you the energy needed for life, while choosing the bad ones can cause you to gain weight and lead to an unhealthy lifestyle.

Good carbohydrates are a key to good health. They contain both vitamins and minerals necessary for health. In addition, they can contain fiber that is necessary to lower your chances of colon cancer and to give you the feeling of fullness without excess calories.

These good carbs come from three basic sources. Vegetables are often very high in fiber, but may be low in calories, especially if consumed raw. Fruits are higher in natural sugars and may satisfy a sweet tooth. In addition, they provide more vitamins and minerals and fiber. Many whole grain foods can also be included in this list. More good sources of carbohydrates include low fat dairy products, beans and legumes. Seeds and raw nuts also supply good carbohydrates as well as some of the oil soluble vitamins.

Foods that are included in the good carbohydrate list offer a lower glycemic index than those that are considered bad carbohydrates. These foods will slowly elevate the blood sugar and are helpful in maintaining your weight at a healthy level. They can be useful for persons working to avoid diabetes or heart disease.

Bad carbohydrates include foods that have been processed and highly refined in such a way as to remove the majority of the nutritional value from the food. These foods may be high in fat and preservatives.

Many of the foods that are considered bad carbohydrates are very tempting to your taste buds. They can, however, cause your body to release insulin. This hormone tells the body to store excess calories as fat.

A list of carbohydrate foods that are considered bad include breads or pasta made with white flour, cookies, cakes and other sweets, grains that are overly processed, including white rice, soda, fruit drinks and juices, candies, jams and jelly.