Washington D.C.: The thought of giving up pasta and bread in an effort to shed a few pounds might seem like an unfair punishment, but, according to various studies, eating the "right" kinds of carbs can keep us healthier. Carbohydrates are some of the most important things we consume. They are a key to regulating blood sugar and providing energy throughout our bodies and without them, our bodies will rely on protein, breaking it down for energy instead of using it in its preferred role of growing and maintaining tissues.

"The people who live the longest, healthiest lives -- who have the lowest rates of diabetes, heart disease and cancer -- their diets are all rich in healthy carbs, including beans, legumes, whole grains and fruit," Tamara Duker Freuman, a dietitian, told CNN.