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    nutrition //

    Why Carbs Aren’t the Enemy

    Why Carbs Aren’t the Enemy

    Carbs get a bad rap, but it’s time to set the record straight. They’re not the villains diet culture makes them out to be—in fact, they’re an essential part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle. From fueling your workouts to supporting your mood (hello, serotonin boost!), carbs are here to do so much more than you think. Ready to embrace the bread basket guilt-free? Let’s break down the truth about carbs and why they deserve a spot on your plate.

    By Dandy / Jan 20, 2025
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    Let’s address the elephant in the room: carbs. For years, they’ve been demonised, blamed for weight gain, and booted off countless plates in the name of health and fitness. But here’s the truth — carbs are not the enemy. In fact, they’re vital for our energy, mood, and overall well-being. If you’ve been eyeing that bowl of pasta with suspicion, it’s time to reconsider. Let’s unpack why carbs deserve a comeback in your diet.

    what are carbs, really?

    Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients your body needs to function properly, alongside protein and fat. They’re essentially your body’s primary energy source. When you eat carbs, your body breaks them down into glucose (a type of sugar), which fuels everything from your daily jog to your late-night Netflix binge.

    Carbs come in two main forms:

     

    Simple Carbs: These are quickly digested and can give you a quick burst of energy. Think sugar, white bread, and processed snacks.

     

    Complex Carbs: Found in whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, these provide a steady release of energy and are packed with fibre, vitamins, and minerals.

    debunking carb myths

    Myth #1: Carbs Make You Gain Weight

     

    Weight gain comes down to one thing: consuming more calories than your body needs. It’s not about carbs, fats, or proteins specifically. Overeating any macronutrient can lead to weight gain. Carbs often get the blame because they’re easy to overeat (hello, endless bread baskets). But in moderation, they’re perfectly fine.

     

    Myth #2: Low-Carb Diets Are the Only Way to Lose Weight

     

    Low-carb diets like keto might work for some, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Cutting carbs drastically can leave you feeling tired, cranky, and less motivated to work out. Plus, many low-carb diets cut out whole food groups, making them tough to sustain long-term.

     

    Myth #3: All Carbs Are Bad

     

    Lumping wholegrain quinoa with a frosted doughnut is like saying all shoes are the same. Whole carbs are nutrient-dense and support your health, while refined carbs offer little more than a quick sugar spike. The key is choosing the right kinds of carbs.
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    why your body loves carbs

    They Fuel Your Brain

     

    Your brain’s preferred energy source is glucose. If you’ve ever felt foggy or irritable after skipping carbs, that’s your brain begging for fuel. Complex carbs, like oats or sweet potatoes, provide a steady supply of glucose to keep you sharp.

     

    They Boost Your Mood

     

    Carbs help your body produce serotonin, the feel-good hormone. That’s why a comforting bowl of pasta can feel like a warm hug on a bad day. Studies even show that carb restriction can lead to irritability and low mood.

     

    They Power Your Workouts

     

    Carbs are your muscles’ best friend. Whether you’re lifting weights or hitting the spin bike, glycogen (stored glucose) fuels your performance. Without enough carbs, you might struggle to hit your fitness goals.

     

    They’re Packed With Nutrients

     

    Whole carbs like fruits, veggies, and grains are brimming with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. Fibre supports digestion and keeps you feeling full, while vitamins and antioxidants protect your body from disease.

    finding balance: how to eat carbs wisely

    Prioritise Complex Carbs

     

    Fill your plate with whole, unprocessed carb sources like brown rice, quinoa, lentils, and vegetables. These are nutrient-dense and keep your energy levels steady.

     

    Watch Portion Sizes

     

    Carbs aren’t evil, but it’s easy to go overboard. A fist-sized portion of pasta or a slice of whole-grain bread can fit seamlessly into a balanced diet.

     

    Pair Carbs with Protein and Fat

     

    Combine carbs with protein and healthy fats to slow digestion and keep your blood sugar stable. Think avocado on whole-grain toast or brown rice with salmon.

     

    Time Your Carbs Strategically

     

    Eating carbs around workouts can help replenish glycogen stores and aid recovery. Enjoying a carb-rich dinner can also promote better sleep by boosting serotonin.

     

    Listen to Your Body

     

    Everyone’s carb needs are different. Active individuals or those with high energy demands might need more carbs than someone with a sedentary lifestyle. Tune in to your hunger cues and energy levels.

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    the role of carbs in long-term health

    Carbs do more than just fuel your day-to-day activities. They play a significant role in long-term health. Diets rich in whole carbs have been linked to:

     

    Heart Health: Whole grains, beans, and fruits lower your risk of heart disease.

     

    Digestive Health: Fibre from carbs supports a healthy gut microbiome.

     

    22 A balanced carb intake can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.

     

    By cutting carbs out of your diet, you’re potentially missing out on these health benefits.

    breaking the carb fear cycle

    So, why are we so scared of carbs? Much of it stems from diet culture, which thrives on vilifying certain foods. But food is not the enemy. Carbs, like any other food group, have a place in a healthy, balanced diet.

     

    Think of carbs as a part of your wellness toolkit. They’re not the sole reason for weight gain, and they’re certainly not something to fear. Instead of banning them, focus on quality and moderation.

    final thoughts

    It’s time to give carbs the respect they deserve. They’re essential for energy, mood, and overall health. Cutting them out entirely does more harm than good, leading to energy crashes, mood swings, and even nutrient deficiencies. By embracing the right kinds of carbs and eating them mindfully, you can enjoy a vibrant, balanced life.

     

    So go ahead, cook that bowl of quinoa, roast those sweet potatoes, or enjoy a slice of whole-grain toast. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you.

     

    Carbs aren’t the enemy. They’re your ally. Let’s stop the war on carbs and start celebrating them instead.

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    Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health or wellbeing.

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