Are All Calories Equal?

We all know the mantra:  "calories in, calories out."  The idea is to expend more energy (calories) than you are taking in and you will lose weight.  Also, as part of this particular equation, is the idea that it doesn't really matter what you eat, as long as you don't eat too much of it.

More recent research shows that the quality of the calories ingested does make a difference.  Refined carbohydrates--white rice, pasta, crackers, cookies, and candy--get converted into glucose quickly, causing a spike in blood sugar and a consequent release of insulin by the pancreas.  The rapid blood sugar-insulin spikes lead to high cholesterol, diabetes and other negative health effects.

The lesson is that the research shows some calories produce fat storage and weight gain more than others.
Source:  AARP

Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309