Carbs Myth Buster, Coming Soon to Carbs.com

Food fads come and go. But like a hurricane, the latest low-carb diet craze has not only wiped entire bread and baking companies off the map, its also swept away pasta and doughnut companies--not that a few less doughnuts would do our waistlines any harm. Worst of all, it has left the American population in a bewildered state of "carbophobia."

I'm Dr. Krystosik, also known as "Dr. Good Carb," and from the moment I heard about the low-carb diet over 10 years ago, I've been on a mission to get carbs back as the ceterpiece on American's plates. Now that low-carb diets are waning, it's time to clean up the aftermath of the diet’s destructive influence on American health and rebuild an eating strategy that will transform the American menu. My goal for the Carb Myth Buster column is to clear up the confusion surrounding carbs once and for all. In each issue, I will employ common sense, backed up by science, in concert with nature to unlock the secrets and tasty benefits of a life filled with healthy carbs.

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The Truth About Trans Fat

You may have noticed some new details on nutrition facts labels as of late. The Food and Drug Administration is now requiring that all packaged foods disclosed the amounts to trans fats in their products. While many of us would expect to find these fats in margarine, potato chips, and snack foods, you may be surprised to find some lurking in your granola or other healthful food choices.

Unlike other data on the label, there is no Daily Recommended Allowance for trans fats, but it is best to limit your intake. These fats are believed to act similar to saturated fats and may raise LDL cholesterol (that's the bad kind) which may increase risks of heart disease. Additionally, trans fats may reduce HDL cholesterol (the kind you want to have).

Since trans fats come from processed vegetable oils, pre-packaged and processed foods are likely culprits. How to avoid them? Cook at home as much as possible using as few processed ingredients as possible.

Body Image: The Right Mindset Makes All the Difference

Americans are bombarded daily with hundreds of images of thin, svelte models and celebrities leading many of us to constantly compare our bodies to those we see in the media setting the stage for a preoccupation with our own body image. Switching gears and getting in to the right frame of mind regarding our own bodies can be just as important as eating well and getting to the gym. Here's some thoughts to help get you on the right track:

• Only 5% of women genetically have the ability to achieve the body types most often seen in the media. Though we'd all like to think we're in that 5%, it may be time for a reality check. Make goals suitable to yourself and your true body type. Don't set out to be thin, set out with the goal of being stronger, more flexible, and healthier.
• It's not just about looks, it's about how you feel. Eating right and regular activity boost your energy levels and help you to feel good in your body.
• Try a new activity. Focus on what your body can do and how to challenge your body, not merely on how it looks.
• Be the best you. If you feel good inside and are taking steps toward overall health, does it really matter that you aren't a size two? We don't think so either.

Babysteps to Health

• Slow and steady wins the race. When you slowly take off the pounds and stick to an exercise program, you are more likely to keep those pounds from coming back. Look at every pound lost as a small victory in the road to health.
• Don't set yourself up for failure; set goals that are attainable. Lofty goals are hard to meet and only leave you frustrated.
• Make it easier on yourself--use half the cream and sugar in your coffee. Make small changes that add up to a big defecit but don't leave you feeling like your giving up everything you love.
• Reward your success--the right way. We'd all like to celebrate that 5 pound milestone with a hunk of chocolate cake, but consider treating yourself in a different way. Why take five steps forward and then two back?
• Keep it interesting. Variety is the spice of life; try new things and new foods. If you eat yourself into boredom, you won't be able to stick to a diet or workout routine.
• Small changes for big results. Love eggs? Ditch the yolks. Chicken? Lose the skin and try baking or grilling instead of frying. It all adds up over time.
• Keep track of activity. Keeping a log or journal of your workouts not only keeps you honest, it allows you to take a look back and see just how far you've come.
• If you must eat sweets, eat dark chocolate because it has many health benefits
  
• Stay away from the scale. When your clothes get looser and your measuments shrink should be proof enough that you are on the right track. Numbers on a scale are just overrated.