List of Carbs

According to The Harvard School of Health, carbohydrates are necessary for fuel (energy) and good health. Carbs fall into two categories: simple and complex. Complex carbohydrates take the body more time to digest because these foods are high in fiber and other nutrients. Some examples of complex carbs include breads, vegetables, legumes, pasta and other starches. Simple carbohydrates such as sugar, fruit, honey and yogurt are digested quickly. Nearly all complex carbs and some simple carbs are good for the body depending on which ones you select. The Today Show on MSNBC says bad carbs are processed carbohydrates such as white rice, cakes, white flour and donuts.

Fruits

• Enjoy a bowl of fruit before heading to work.

  Fruits are high-fiber, nutrient-dense simple carbohydrates. These foods fuel the body without adding too many calories. Most fruits are generally very low in calories depending on your serving size. Choose colorful fruits such as blueberries, kiwi and strawberries. Apples are filling and loaded with fiber. Eat fruit for breakfast, or snack on your favorite fruits throughout the day.

Vegetables

• Eat a wide variety of vegetables each day.

  Vegetables are also listed as "healthy carbs," according to the University of Harvard School of Health and other websites. Eat five or more vegetables per day. These complex carbohydrates are also high in other nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, vitamin A and D. Prepare your salad with dark leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach rather than iceberg lettuce. Kale and spinach are a good source of healthy carbs and other nutrients such as vitamin A and calcium. Combine two handfuls of greens with one cup of water, 1/2 cup of strawberries, 1/2 cup of blueberries and 1 banana in a blender. This smoothie combines greens with fruit to serve as an energy boosting morning meal.

Grains

• Choose your breads wisely. Whole wheat and sprouted grains are generally the best.

  All types of grains are classified as carbohydrates. Eat bread that is made from sprouted grains or whole wheat grains. Avoid white bread because this food has been processed. Grains are generally healthy for everyone unless you have a wheat allergy. Eat whole grain cereal and try out different breads to see what you like. Grains are high in fiber and minerals. People who are sensitive to grains may experience bloating, skin problems and digestive issues. Talk to your doctor if you feel you have a wheat allergy. Otherwise you can enjoy eating all the healthy grains you like.