Carbs – Do I, Or Don’t I

Carbs have gotten a bad rap – especially as a result of fad diets. Yet carbohydrates, which break down into sugar in the body are a necessary fuel for strenuous exercise. They’re a short-term fuel source because the body has limited ability to store carbohydrates. Complex carbs from fruit, vegetables and whole grains are the best carbs, while simple carbs from refined sugars are the worst. There are two different types of carbs, and they are metabolized at different rates by the body.Simple carbs (such as white bread, hard candy and cookies) are fast-burning, while complex carbs are slow-burning. It’s best to consume slow-burning carbs (such as oatmeal, brown rice, yams and apples) because they keep blood sugar levels steady longer and keep you feeling full longer, too. Slow conversion is ideal for keeping blood sugar levels steady so that you don’t experience that horrible crash, or hitting-the-wall feeling. As a bonus, you won’t get appetite swings, and your energy levels and body weight will remain consistent. It’s ridiculous to function on zero carbs. Have you ever tried it? You feel like a zombie, completely drained of energy and life. It’s impossible to ask your brain to function this way. The brain needs a steady supply of high-quality carbs to run properly. Expert advise eating about 55 to 60 percent of your total daily calories from carbohydrates – especially complex carbs. Remember that when it comes to carbs, go for the slow-burning fuel if you want that staying power.