Stephanie said research shows that eating refined grains (white bread and baked goods, white rice, white pasta, etc.) increases abdominal fat. This effect may in part be due to the high glycemic index that triggers the release of excess insulin, which is associated with weight gain.
Instead, choose complex carbs, which are higher in fibre and protein. Registered dietitian Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition told POPSUGAR, "They break down slowly in the body because of their high-fibre content and help to keep blood sugar levels steady since they are digested slower. They're also richer in nutrients than simple carbohydrates." Go for whole grains like quinoa, steel-cut oats, wild rice, black beans, berries, and sweet potatoes.
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