TO CARB OR NOT TO CARB????

Hi Everyone,

Have you ever heard someone say carbs are bad? Many people think that if they just don't eat carbs their weight problem will be gone. But is this true?

Well, as with all myths there is some truth and some fiction. There are different kinds of carbs. Simple carbohydrates like table sugar which is plentiful in soda and candy should be limited. Complex carbohydrates, whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread take longer to digest and can help you feel more satisfied.

Calories not Carbs are the main cause of weight gain. In fact, recent research indicates that an eating plan rich in complex carbohydrates is recommended for overweight individuals. Complex carbohydrates contain naturally occurring nutrients like fiber, vitamins, minerals and iron.

You can trust Weight Watchers. We have the filling foods list to help us make good food choices. By using the filling foods we are choosing carbs that are satisfying, last a long time and can help us with weight loss.

DATE AND ALMOND OATMEAL
serves 4 points value 7

4 cups water
1 cup steel cut oats
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup pitted dates, quartered
3 Tablespoons plus 4 teaspoons honey
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup sliced almonds

l. Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan. Add the oats and salt; cook at a low boil, stirring occasionally, until mixture begins to thicken, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat and simmer until very thick, about 15 minutes. Stir in the dates, the 3 tablespoons of honey, and the vanilla; simmer, stirring occasionally, until the oats are tender, 12-15 minutes longer.
2. Meanwhile, place the almonds in a small nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Cook, shaking the skillet often, until lightly browned, 3-4 minutes. Set the almonds aside.
3. Divide the oatmeal among 4 bowls. Top evenly with the almonds and the additional 4 teaspoons honey. Serve at once.

serving - 3/4 cup oatmeal with 1 teaspoon honey. From Weight Watchers Pure Comfort Cook book.

I will be in London starting on May 1st. So if I do not see you before Thursday, I will see you when I get back on May 12th. Don't miss the meetings, they are your lifeline to the Weight Watcher program.

Lorraine