Some truth about CARBS

Why is it that carbohydrates always get a bad wrap? I hear so often "I am on a no carb or low carb diet." Or "carbs are bad." Not all carbs are bad, and unless your doctor said you should be on a low carb or no car diet, then perhaps you should do a little more homework before going for the little or nothing option.

First off, try to understand the difference between complex and simple carbs. Complex carbs contain fiber and starch found in whole grains and vegetables. Simple carbs are made up of sugar units like glucose (blood sugar) of fructose (fruit & some veggies), or multiple sugar units like sucrose (table sugar) or lactose (sugar in dairy).


The body stores a very limited amount of carbs in the liver as glycogen, used throughout the body and brain as fuel. These stores can be depleted while you sleep or during a 60-90 min exercise. When these stores are empty, the liver will break down other substances to maintain blood glucose, such as protein. Therefore, one of the main functions of carbs is to spare proteins and be an important fuel for the body.

Naturally, you will need to replenish these carb stores, ortherwise you will feel drained and have little energy. When this happens, it is hard for the body to perform at it's best. It is recommended that the average adult should consume 45-65% of their total calories from carbs, more importantly complex carbs. If you exercise for long duration or twice a day, you may have to consume more.

This is just some foundation knowledge, but hopefully gives you a little better understanding of the importance of carbs. So the next time you think you should be on a low carb or no carb diet, and haven't consulted your doctor or a nutritionist first, pause and consider that before you make your decision. You might be hindering yourself instead of helping yourself.