"Carb" isn’t a dirty word, but it has developed a connotation of being an unnecessary indulgence.

Carbohydrates are an important part of any diet. In fact, carbohydrates are present in fruits, vegetables and legumes. They’re responsible for the glucose you need in your brain and spinal cord.

Low carbohydrate diets still contain carbohydrates. People tend to go too far when reducing the carbs in their diets.

You should eat carbohydrates in foods as part of meals. If you’re eating spaghetti and meatballs, the carbs in the noodles would be a necessary part of dinner. The basket full of bread sticks would be an unnecessary part of dinner.

Portion control will also help with your unnecessary carb consumption. Restaurants serve huge portions. The “clean your plate” attitude at home can lead to excessive carb consumption. Learn the appropriate portion for your body, and save the leftovers for another meal.

Eat less added sugar. A glass of orange juice contains naturally occurring sugar. A glass of orange soda contains added sugars. Look for foods that have naturally occurring sugars and don’t require added sugars in the processing. The source of the sugars in your food is more important than the label’s sugar measurement.

Most people don’t need to go to extremes when eliminating foods from the diet. Have you earned what you’re eating? An active lifestyle can balance out the foods you’re consuming.

You should get about half your energy from carbohydrates, emphasizing vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Sugar consumption is sometimes a problem for those who eat too much fruit per day. Find a good source of protein to meet your protein needs and eat reasonable portions. Use olive oil for cooking. Consume healthy fats.

Listen in as Dr. Brian Parr shares how you can sensibly enjoy carbs.