Allow us to put to bed the myth that carbohydrates are your enemy...
SEP 02nd 2016
The Truth About Carbohydrates
Throughout the history of diets the word carbohydrates (carbs) has often been looked upon as being a food group that shouldn’t be touched when you are trying to lose weight. Take the Atkin’s diet as an example. However recent studies and many up and coming nutritionists, have unleashed the well-kept secret that carbohydrates are actually a good thing and are a requirement for those keeping up a fitness routine.
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Carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy, balanced diet
Q
What actually are carbohydrates?
A
Carbs are nutrients that break down into glucose, your body’s primary source of energy. They can be found in a lot of different foods and are vital to keep our bodies moving.
Q
Are all carbohydrates the same?
A
No. In fact there are two groups that they can be separated into. Firstly there are the kind that are broken down quickly by our bodies. For example sugars that get added to many foods, refined grains such as white rice or even natural sugars such as fructose, which mainly appear in your fruits. These kind of carbohydrates provide a quick source of energy but do not last, so they are ideal for a quick pick me up or a sudden burst of energy. The second kind of carb is the longer lasting version. These are the ones that you find in whole grains, vegetables and legumes, which provide you with the lasting energy, meaning you can exercise for longer or help you to avoid snacking because they fill you up more.
Q
What carbs should I avoid?
A
So essentially, the quick releasing carbohydrates are like empty calories. They contain the energy but because it doesn’t last, it doesn’t really do much for you. So try to cut down on any added sugar or refined grain and concentrate on eating more of the slow release carbohydrates.
Before you embark on any dietary changes, make sure you speak with your GP or nutritionist and ensure that it fits in with your lifestyle. To learn more about how to incorporate carbohydrates into a healthy balanced diet, visit the NHS livewell page.
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