A QUICK GUIDE ON CARBS

CARBS FORM THE CORE

Fats, Protein and Carbs form the nutrition trinity when it comes to our diet. Carbs are an integral part of our food as it is called the main body fuel or source of energy. The body turns all that carbs into glycogen, which is stored in your muscles and various other organs. This is used to perform various daily activities. This can range from walking to cooking something in the kitchen.

THERE ARE 3 KINDS OF CARBS THAT OUR BODY USES FOR ENERGY

FIBROUS CARBOHYDRATES

Fibrous foods regulate the quick release of glycogen in the body, which means they ensure that your blood sugar does not spike. Plus, high fibrous carbs ensure a healthy bowel movement in the digestive system.

SIMPLE CARBOHYDRATES

These are carbs that are quickly absorbed in the body as energy, which also means they spike the blood sugar levels. These are primarily foods such as white bread, refined flour, sugar, cola and desserts. These can be harmful as they get absorbed quickly into the body and convert into fats. It also means that you will have short bursts of energy followed by episodes of fatigue and tiredness. Plus, it increases your sugar cravings because of the quick absorption of glycogen. That’s why it is one of the major reasons for obesity, heart disease and diabetes.

COMPLEX CARBOHYDRATES

These are healthier carbs as they get absorbed slowly into your bloodstream. This means you have energy throughout the day and feel lesser hunger pangs or cravings. A good source of complex carbohydrates would be whole-grain bread, brown rice, lentils, beans, peas, quinoa. Plus, they contain other important nutrients like B-vitamins, protein, calcium fibre and iron.

BENEFITS OF CARBOHYDRATES

MOOD BOOSTER

Consuming carbohydrates releases a neurotransmitter - serotonin, which is known to boost happiness and curb depression.

CUT THE WEIGHT WITH CARBS

Fibrous carbs can help you to lose weight because they help in the bowel movements and make you feel full, which means you eat less and lose more.

HEART-FRIENDLY

Complex carbs contain various nutrients, which can benefit the heart and reduce cholesterol. Foods like whole grains such as quinoa and brown rice along with beans have shown visible results.

BRAIN FOOD

Now we all know that the brain uses more energy than any other part of the human body. Therefore, it needs to be fuelled by nutrients to be responsive. Carbs provide a good raw material for the brain to be sharp and active throughout the day.

KEEP IT BALANCED

Yes, carbs are important but so are other foods such as protein and fats. So, don’t go excess on carbs. Eat a balanced diet and more importantly, exercise regularly.