So what is considered a "good carb?"

Carbs. Our bodies all crave them from time to time, and much to the dismay of carb-cutting weight loss trends, carbohydrates are actually a vital part of our diets. When most of us think of "carbs," bread is probably the first thing to pop into our minds. Did you know that fruits and vegetables are also a good source of carbohydrates? True story.

I came across a great article about carbohydrates published by Harvard School of Public Health that I think is well worded and worth sharing with you on my blog:

"The best sources of carbohydrates—whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans—promote good health by delivering vitamins, minerals, fiber, and a host of important phytonutrients. Easily digested carbohydrates from white bread, white rice, pastries, sugared sodas, and other highly processed foods may contribute to weight gain, interfere with weight loss, and promote diabetes and heart disease.

"Five Quick Tips for Adding Good Carbs to Your Diet:

1. Start the day with whole grains. Try a hot cereal, like old-fashioned oats, or a cold cereal that lists a whole grain first on the ingredient list.

2. Use whole grain breads for lunch or snacks.

3. Bag the potatoes. Instead, try brown rice, bulgur, wheat berries, whole wheat pasta, or another whole grain with your dinner.

4. Choose whole fruit instead of juice. An orange has two times as much fiber and half as much sugar as a 12-ounce glass of orange juice.

5. Bring on the beans. Beans are an excellent source of slowly digested carbohydrates as well as a great source of protein."

So yes, if you're trying to watch your waistline, personally I wouldn't recommend loading up on the buttery, cholesterol-laden dinner rolls that come to your table at some fancy restaurants. But loading up on good carbs is a smart idea. By simply trading out good carbs for the processed, sugary, white bread in your diet, you'll feel leaner, be healthier, still enjoy the taste, and have more energy.