Thoughts on SmartCarbs

I will write more about this later, but one of the major changes that I think Nutrisystem made is about how they are treating carbs on the program. I am definitely not a keto person- I don't think that carbs are the enemy, and while I see that a low carb diet works for some people's bodies, I don't believe that they are the next miracle diet. I think that our bodies all process food differently and respond differently, and because of that the "right" diet is going to vary from person to person. One of the reasons I like the Nutrisystem program in general is because it's balanced- everything in moderation.

However, in 2010 the program put a lot more stress on the glycemic index. Women with fewer than 100lbs to lose didn't even get extra carb servings in their day unless they had an entrée like the BBQ chicken or tuna salad where you're supposed to add one. While you got carbs in, the program told you it was specifically a fruit serving- not any carb of your choice. There are some carbs that are appallingly non nutritious that will still fit the SmartCarb rules all because they happen to fit the new requirements of 80-120 calories and at least 1g of fiber. I don't think foods like this are all that helpful with weight loss, even if they do technically fit the guidelines.

If you find your weight loss stalling, I'd have a look at what items you're using for SmartCarbs. Are they actually smart? I wouldn't cut them out completely, just reevaluate your choices. Nothing wrong with having a piece of fruit instead of a handful of crackers!

And on that note, here is a lovely SmartCarb recipe for you that will taste far more decadent than it is.

Strawberry Cinnamon Muffins (SmartCarb):

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup rolled oats
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup FF milk
1/4 cup light olive oil
1/3 cup honey
1/2 pint chopped fresh strawberries

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl mix together egg, milk, olive oil, and sugar. Add in strawberries to the wet bowl. Stir strawberry mixture into dry mixture until evenly moistened. Spoon into prepared muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out cleanly.

Makes 12 servings.

Count this recipe as one SmartCarb serving and one extra. They are delicious!