Extreme proponents of low-carb diets encourage everyone to replace all carbs with animal protein and fat. However, many nutritionists and dieticians disagree with this approach, and suggest that low-carb diets are missing the real issue: that it's the quality of the carbohydrates you choose that makes a difference.

Carbohydrates are an essential part of a balanced, healthful diet. Instead of simply shunning carbs in your efforts to maintain a healthy weight, learn to make the right choices. Start by avoiding the more-refined carbohydrates. Rapidly converted into blood sugar, refined carbs cause corresponding rises and falls in insulin levels, which can lead to overeating, weight gain and insulin resistance. Common examples of refined carbohydrates include:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Sweetened dairy products
• Most snack foods and baked goods
• Processed grains, crackers, rice cakes, most breads
• Soft drinks
• High fructose corn syrup

Think of refined carbohydrates as processed foods, and eat them sparingly. Read tomorrow's Daily Tip for information on healthier, less-refined carbohydrates.

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