The best carbs are the ones with the highest fiber possible. Stay away from the usual evils of cookies (even Snackwells!), cakes, etc. The highest-fiber commercial product I have found is Grape-Nuts. They are great in a cup of fat-free yogurt. --annyb

4. Try healthy substitutes
I've tried to cut down on carbs by substitution. For example, instead of pasta, I opt for spaghetti squash. It's difficult, though -- you don't realize how many meals are centered around carbs until they become your focus. --nancy

5. Avoid refined foods
Slowly digested carbs are the clue to losing weight in a diet; they fill you up and keep you full longer without adding glucose (which raises your insulin level). Slowly digested carbs include soybeans, any dried beans and barley-corn tortillas. Avoid "soft" (refined) carbs like baked goods, white flour, sugar and alcoholic drinks. Read Dr. Bob Arnot's Revolutionary Weight Control Program for more details. --bridalconsult

Bad carbs: white rice, white flour, white pasta, pastries, donuts, cakes, cookies, white bread of all kinds, refined sugary cereals -- most food that comes in a box. Don't sweat the occasional crusty white bread with some good olive oil. --susan

6. Avoid sugar
I try not to eat or drink anything with too many sugars, such as juice. Juice is just extra carbs and extra calories my body does not need. --iVillager