Complex carbs: Carbs found in whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Simple carbs: Sugars and starches that have been refined and stripped of their natural fiber and nutrients.

What are some complex carbs?

• Whole grains such as brown rice, wild rice, oatmeal, and whole-grain (rather than pearled) barley.
• Grain-like foods such as quinoa (a seed) and buckwheat (a grass)
• Starchy vegetables including potatoes, sweet potatoes, and corn.

What is a simple carb?

Simple carbohydrates are broken down quickly by the body to be used as energy. Simple carbohydrates are found naturally in foods such as fruits, milk, and milk products. They are also found in processed and refined sugars such as candy, table sugar, syrups, and soft drinks.