Don’t be Afraid of Carbs!

There are several diets out there that tell people that carbs are bad and you must restrict or eliminate carbohydrates in order to lose weight. This is extremely misleading and these types of diets make people think that all carbohydrates are bad and lead to weight gain. However, carbohydrates are a vital nutrient, and you need to get some form of all the essential nutrients. Carbohydrates are the body’s fuel, its energy source. Your body uses carbohydrates to make glucose which is used for energy. Carbohydrates are also an important source for many vitamins and minerals. You need carbohydrates to fuel your day but it is important to get the right types of carbohydrates, which are those from WHOLE, PLANT-BASED sources.

The best types of carbohydrates are those found in plant-foods, because they contain a lot of fiber which slows the breakdown of glucose. Glucose should be released slowly in the body, rather than quickly, because when it is released too quickly, it leads to a sugar spike and increase in blood sugar levels. Fruits and vegetables are high in carbohydrates and high in fiber. The high fiber in fruits and vegetables will help you feel satisfied, while the carbohydrates will keep you energized. 

Alternately, processed carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta, baked goods, and other snack foods are very low in fiber. They way these products are processed by the body is the same way the body processes pure sugar. It causes a spike in blood sugar and leaves you feeling unsatisfied and craving more sugary, fatty foods.

My advice…load up on carbs!!!! Carbs from fruits, vegetables and other plant sources.  I recommend 60-80% of your diet come from plant carbs. This may seem high, but most carbs from fruits and vegetables are low in calories, so while you are getting all the fuel you need, you won’t be consuming excess calories. These carbs will help you feel satisfied, energized, and revitalized!