03 Dec Carbs Are Bad!….. Aren’t They?
Some carbs, low carbs, no carbs, I know a lady named Barb. With all the conflicting information about carbs, what are they and how much do you actually need?
Your body uses carbohydrates as fuel to give you energy and helps keep everything going. Carbohydrates can be found in fruits, vegetables, cereals, breads, milk, and foods that have added sugar. So, if the body uses carbs as the primary energy source we definitely need carbs, but the problem comes when we consume too much or consume the foods with added sugar.
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 50% of your daily calories should come from carbohydrates, so a person looking to consume 2000 calories per day should aim for 200-250 grams per day. With that said, not all carbohydrates are the same and individuals with restrictive diets such as people with diabetes would aim to consume a different amount.
Carbohydrates are categorized as simple sugars and complex carbohydrates. Simple sugars are absorbed quickly and are broken down in the body; any sugar not used for fuel is converted to fat and stored as adipose. Examples of simple sugars are: raw sugar, brown sugar, high fructose corn syrup, syrup, and honey. Complex carbs are broken down at a slower rate and your body does not absorb sugar as fast. Examples of complex carbs are: legumes, corn, beans, fruit, spinach, 100% whole wheat products, and other vegetables.
I hope this article sheds some light on carbohydrates and how they are not as bad advertised. Just remember the key is to have a well balanced diet consisting of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates while staying away from foods with added sugar.
On January 7th 2013 we will begin our fitness class called Fitness Resolution. It will be on Monday and Thursday night at 6:00 PM for 6 weeks. For pricing and more information contact us at 662-282-4949 or email Kim at kimpropt@gmail.com.
Cory Lee, LPTA, RRCA-Certified Running Coach.
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