A common misconception of low carb diet participants is that they should avoid all carbohydrates, but this is just not possible or healthy for people. Complex carbohydrates from natural foods are essential for energy and proper brain function. People who consume fewer complex carbohydrates may suffer from irritability. Unfortunately, they often boost their mood with simple carbohydrates from refined sugar products. This is how diabetes begins to develop in many people.

If, instead, someone who was feeling sluggish or ill tempered ate some natural foods like apples, celery or carrots, the complex carbohydrates would provide a healthier mood boost. It might take longer, but the benefits would be longer lasting, as well.

Complex carbohydrates are different from simple carbohydrates because they are made up of three or more sugar molecules linked together, instead of only one or two. Of course, simple carbohydrates can be from natural foods, but refined sugar products do not provide the same benefits as fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains. High fructose corn syrup and table sugar are examples of products that contain too many simple carbohydrates.

Simple carbohydrates do occur naturally in fruits and vegetables, but in much smaller amounts than in products like cookies, candy, ice cream and cakes. Some high starch foods such as potatoes, corn, carrots and whole grains include even longer chains of complex carbohydrates. That's why these natural foods provide long lasting energy without the sugar crashes associated with simple carbohydrates.

Experts suggest that 50% of the calories consumed each day should be from complex carbohydrates. There are so many natural foods to choose from that this daily recommended amount should not be a problem. However, some do find it difficult to eat enough of the right kinds of natural foods each day. Maybe they don't care for the taste of a large enough variety of fruits or vegetables to consume the daily required amount. In those cases, there are concentrated foods and drinks which can provide plenty of complex carbohydrates in formulas that are easy to consume. In fact, it is now easier than ever to consume the right kinds of carbohydrates in advanced nutritional formulas that provide an abundance of nutrients from natural foods.

Author Profile - Cliff Smith is one of the owners of this online health food store that specializes in concentrated natural foods and drinks. Here, discover the most powerful sources of complex carbohydrates for managing weight, gaining energy and satisfying hunger.

See Cliff's natural weight loss plan.