Resistant Starches: The Hidden Hero of Healthy Eating

If you’ve been looking for a way to fuel your body, support gut health, and feel your best, resistant starches might just be the secret ingredient you didn’t know you needed. These special types of carbohydrates are a powerhouse for your health—offering benefits far beyond simple energy.

So, what exactly is resistant starch? Unlike regular starches that break down into glucose during digestion, resistant starch resists digestion in your small intestine. Instead, it travels to your colon, where it acts as a prebiotic, feeding your gut’s beneficial bacteria. Think of it as the VIP guest that keeps your microbiome thriving!

Here’s why you should embrace resistant starches:

1. Gut Health Superpowers: Resistant starches ferment in the colon, producing short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which supports gut lining health and reduces inflammation.
2. Balanced Blood Sugar: Since resistant starches don’t spike glucose levels, they’re great for promoting steady energy and helping manage blood sugar.
3. Long-Lasting Satiety: Resistant starches help you feel fuller for longer, making them a smart addition for those looking to manage cravings or support weight goals.

You’ll find resistant starches in foods like green bananas, cooked and cooled rice or potatoes, lentils, oats, and even certain grains. The trick? Cooking and cooling these foods increases their resistant starch content—so don’t skip those potatoes and rices in your NutriFit meals!

Incorporating resistant starches into your meals is a simple yet powerful way to fuel your body, thrive in your daily life, and flourish in your health goals. For more tips and creative ways to use these foods, check out this week’s Fuel, Thrive & Flourish video on Instagram!