The impact of the consumption of carbohydrates, also known simply as carbs, in a balanced diet has mixed opinions. While the majority of researchers think they are harmful, many others believe that carbohydrate consumption can be beneficial for your health, depending on how you eat them. In this article, you’ll find some facts about carbs you should know.
Carbs Are an Energy Source
Carbs are the fuel of preference your body – especially your brain – craves in both a fed and fasting state. Every activity you do, from thinking to dancing, is fueled by the carbs you consume.
Carbs From Bread Aren’t All the Same
When it comes to grains, there is a wide range of breads you can choose from, including waffles, bagels, and more. Studies show that the best bread alternative to include in your diet is whole grains, such as quinoa, rice, and whole wheat pasta.
Fiber Is a Carb
Studies have found that fiber, which is a carb, has many benefits for your health. It provides satiety, cancer protection, blood cholesterol management, and more.
Carbs Are Present in Fruits and Vegetables
Consumption of fruits and vegetables is paramount when keeping a healthy diet. You may not know that they have a large amount of carbohydrates.
Sugar Can Be Nutritional
Many healthy foods, such as fruits and milk, contain natural levels of sugar. Other foods have added sugar in the form of maple syrup and honey, among other sweeteners.
Carbohydrates Don’t Cause Diabetes
American Diabetes Association research has shown that there will be a significant increase in the number of diabetes diagnoses in the next year. The cause, however, isn’t primarily related to carbohydrate consumption, but sugar and fats, being overweight, and a lack of physical activity.
Carbs Contain 4 Calories per Gram
Someone trying to create a healthy eating plan should know that carbs contain only four calories per gram, while fat has nine, whether saturated or unsaturated.
Half of Your Calories Should Be Carbs
The AMDR’s acceptable macronutrient distribution range establishes that an adult’s diet should include 45-65% of carbs.
Adding Carbs to Your Diet
Carbs are thought to be harmful to those trying to maintain a healthy diet. However, you should know that many foods you consume, such as fruits and vegetables, contain carbs. So monitor your consumption of essential carbs to fuel your body and brain.
