What Are Carbs And Why Are We Afraid Of Them?

What are carbohydrates? Carbohydrates, or carbs, are more than just something many people fear when it comes to weight management. They are essential molecules that our bodies use mostly for energy. In fact, they are the main energy source for the brain and nervous system when broken down into glucose during digestion. Additionally, they protect muscle mass from being catabolized during exercise. The Secret Weapon of Complex Carbs: Fiber Fiber is a special type of complex carb that promotes efficient intestinal functioning and aids in the absorption of sugars and nutrients into the bloodstream. It's usually found in different plant foods and the outer coverings of grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Not only does it help soften stool and encourage regular bowel movements, but fiber-rich diets also promote satiety, or the feeling of fullness. However, when eating a high-fiber diet, it's important to drink plenty of fluids in order to move them through your system properly. What is Glycogen? When carbs are consumed, they are broken down and converted to a type of sugar called glucose. This glucose is the main source of fuel for our cells. Our bodies store it in the liver and muscles, and this stored glucose, made up of connected glucose molecules, is called glycogen. When the body needs energy or is not getting glucose from food, glycogen is broken down to release glucose into the bloodstream to be used as fuel. Why are Carbs Demonized? Unfortunately, carbohydrates often get a bad reputation in dietary conversations. This is largely due to the fact that each gram of glycogen is stored with at least three grams of water. When glycogen is used, water is also removed from the body. Many fad diets take advantage of this by limiting carb intake, which causes glycogen to become depleted quickly. This results in a rapid loss in water weight, which many people mistake as a loss in body fat. Therefore, an incorrect assumption is made that being overweight is caused by carbohydrates. What Do I Suggest? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how many carbohydrates you should incorporate in your diet. Everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, it's important not to eliminate carbohydrates altogether. Aiming for 25-30 grams of fiber per day (for females) is a good guideline. Find what works for you and your body and remember, carbohydrates are not the enemy - they are an essential part of a balanced diet.

Article by: @Michelle_kilduff