Almost everyone loves rice and pasta, but it’s tough to enjoy them when you’re on a diet trying to lose weight.

Fortunately, it’s possible. Here’s how.

First, you need to avoid the processed, “white bread” versions of rice and pasta. The whole-grain, unrefined versions take a little longer to cook, but are much better for you. And they fill you up.

I’ve spent the last month on a vegan diet as part of an experiment, and I’ve been able to eat as much rice and pasta (and bread) as I’ve wanted – while still losing body fat – thanks to choosing the right sources.

These are your top sources for whole-grain carbohydrates on a weight-loss diet:

* Wild rice

* Quinoa – a high-protein grain

* Spelt – a high-fiber grain

* Kamut wheat pasta – a high-protein, high-fiber grain that is tolerated well
by folks who are usually allergic to gluten (a protein found in wheat).

The kamut pasta is delicious, and as good as any traditional “white flour” pasta you’ve ever had.

[Ed. Note: Eating the right foods is just one part of slimming down and firming up. To burn fat and build muscle, check out fitness expert Craig Ballantyne's Turbulence Training program right here.

For more easy-to-implement ideas about how to live longer and feel better, get your free subscription to ETR's natural health newsletter.]