CARBOHYDRATES

CARBOHYDRATES…ARE YOU CONFUSED ABOUT THEM?  

Carbohydrates have earned themselves a bad rap in recent years. Over time, a macronutrient that provides us with such important health benefits has been vilified as the source of obesity and poor health. It is SO frustrating hearing the amount of misinformation, fear-mongering and confusion surrounding carbohydrates and their apparent ‘negative impact’ on our health.

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀

Just to be clear, yes refined carbohydrates (found in most pastries, soft drinks, white breads/pastas) are more energy dense and have been processed, therefore lack essential vitamins or minerals for your body and therefore should be consumed mindfully and occasionally. 

However, most whole and nutrient dense foods such as vegetables, whole-grains (e.g. buckwheat, brown rice, wholegrain pasta, breads), legumes and fruit are also defined as carbohydrates but in the form of complex carbohydrates (including dietary fibre) and should be incorporated regularly into a balanced diet.

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀

The primary function of carbohydrates is to provide the body with energy including fuel for brain function. Compared to refined sugars, complex carbohydrates are incredibly important for improving satiety and providing our bodies with long lasting energy levels since they are digested slowly and therefore supply a more steady release of glucose into the blood stream.

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀

By adopting a ‘low carb diet’ you are not only restricting yourself from an essential food group and energy source but also dietary fibre and both an abundance and variety of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. All these key nutrients play a pivotal role in supporting optimal digestion and gut health (by feeding our beneficial bacteria), immune function and helping to balance our hormones (including stress, thyroid, satiety and sex hormones).

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀

And remember, all food groups have a purpose. They provide us with a range of essential nutrients that play vital roles in helping the body function and thrive.   

The ideal balance between each food group can vary person to person, but altogether they make up a balanced, and nutrient rich diet.

Jules xo