Are Carbs Bad For Me?

The short answer… No, absolutely not!

The LONG answer…

Carbohydrates are one of the 3 main macronutrients, along with protein & fat. They are the body's main source of energy, providing glucose, which is used by the cells to function. Carbohydrates are also necessary for the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood.

There are two main types of carbohydrates: simple carbohydrates & complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates are found in foods like sugar, honey, & fruit juice. They are quickly digested & absorbed by the body, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, these are better for around workouts. Complex carbohydrates are found in foods like whole grains, fruits, & vegetables. They are more slowly digested & absorbed by the body, which helps to keep blood sugar levels stable.

Carbohydrates are not bad for the body. In fact, they are essential for good health. However, it is important to choose healthy sources of carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, & vegetables. These foods are high in fiber, which helps to slow down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. They are also a good source of vitamins, minerals, & antioxidants.

Here a few benefits of carbohydrates:

• Provide energy for the body

• Help to regulate blood sugar levels

• Promote satiety

• Support the immune system

• Protect against chronic diseases

Here are some sources of better carbohydrates versus processed carbohydrates:

I do not think there are necessarily “bad” foods/carbs, as you can see in my wording below. When you are able to, I would encourage you to just incorporate more of the choices in the “healthier” list, & slowly cut back on the processed choices.

Healthier carb choices:

• Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats

• Fruits, such as apples, bananas, & berries

• Vegetables, such as any potatoes, carrots, & broccoli

Processed carb choices:

• White bread

• White rice

• Pasta

• Sugary drinks

• Cakes

• Cookies

*Neither of these lists are complete, there are tons of foods that fall under each list & I encourage you to look up what falls under each, or keep following me. Carb sources under each of the lists are not equal as far as calories & total carbs go, some of the items have more calories & carbs, some less. Do your research here as well OR start tracking what you eat!

Choose healthy sources of carbohydrates when planning your meals; whole grains, fruits, & vegetables are good choices. Processed carbohydrates should be limited, as they can contribute to weight gain & other health problems.