Basically, there are two major types of carbohydrates: simple and complex.

In their simplest form, carbohydrates are linked rings of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms.

Whether a carbohydrate is classified as simple or complex is based on the molecular structure of the carbohydrate, such as how many rings the carbohydrate has and how the rings are linked together. Being aware of which foods contain what type of carbohydrate can serve as a guide to lose weight fast.

Simple carbohydrates can be found in refined products, like candy and juices, and in fruits.

In contrast, complex carbohydrates can be found in foods such as vegetables, whole grains, and beans.

For many years, the general consensus was that the consumption of complex carbohydrates was preferred over the consumption of simple carbohydrates.

Although this can function as a general guide to lose weight fast, it cannot be regarded as an accurate estimate of whether or not the food helps in weight loss.

This is because simply distinguishing between foods that are simple or complex carbohydrates does not take into account its effect on the body's blood sugar levels.

Some simple carbohydrates minimally affect the blood sugar levels of the body; however, some complex carbohydrates can dramatically raise these levels. Clearly, knowing how to distinguish between foods with simple and complex carbohydrates is not enough; there is more to it.

The classification of carbohydrates can be furthered using the glycemic index (GI).

On the GI, foods are ranked on a scale of 0 to 100.

The lower the ranking of a food on the GI, the slower the food raises blood sugar levels.

On the other hand, the higher the ranking of a food, the more quickly it raises blood sugar levels.

The ranking of a food on the GI is determined by the body's blood sugar levels two hours after that food has been eaten on an empty stomach.

In order to use the GI as a guide to lose weight fast, note that foods that are ranked low have a ranking of 55 or less.

Foods ranked between 56 and 69 are considered to be in the medium rank.

High-ranking foods are those that have a rank of 70 or more on the GI.

The information provided by the GI on how foods influence blood sugar levels can be used as guide; however, it should not be the only guide to determining carbohydrate consumption.

The GI only takes into consideration the effect of the food on the blood sugar levels when the food is eaten alone and on an empty stomach.

Since most people do not eat carbohydrates in this manner, the GI alone cannot be used as the sole guide to lose weight fast. When carbs are consumed along with lean proteins and other foods, their effect on the body's blood sugar levels is altered.

Moreover, it is not always true that a food ranked low on the GI is healthy and a food ranked high on GI is unhealthy.

Nevertheless, the GI can serve as a useful tool when trying to eat healthy; in fact, it is a valuable supplementary guide to lose weight fast.