Should you cut down on CARBS?

Ketogenic low carbs diet - food selection on white background
Nutrition & Lifestyle

Should you cut down on CARBS?

Carbohydrates (Carbs) are essential macronutrients that our body needs for energy production, hormone regulation and as a source of nutrients.

There are 3 categories of carbs:

  • Sugars: simple carbs found in foods and directly absorbed into the blood such as glucose, fructose, galactose and sucrose.
  • Starches: complex carbs, which first are digested into glucose in the digestive system to get absorbed in the blood
  • Fiber: these types of carbs cannot be digested by the human body but it is used as an important source of energy by our digestive system. 

Good carbs vs. Bad carbs

What is the difference between simple carbs, processed carbs and complex carbs? 

  • Simple carbs convert to sugar much faster in the body and can spike blood sugar
  • Processed carbs convert to sugar quickly, can spike blood sugar and are often stripped/devoid of any nutritional value
  • Complex carbs break down more slowly, allowing a more gradual release of energy. They contain fiber and other important vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients

Healthy carbs play a crucial in weight loss as they provide sustainable energy, support weight loss, regulate hormones and support better nights sleep. Here are some carbs to enjoy:

  • Non-starchy vegetables
  • Fruits
  • Beets
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Pumpkin
  • Squash
  • Oats
  • Brown Rice
  • Quinoa
  • Beans and Lentils

The below are carbs to avoid or moderate as they convert to sugar, can spike blood sugar and are often with no nutritional value:

  • White bread
  • Pasta
  • Pasteurized Fruit Juice
  • Cereal
  • Ice Cream
  • Refined Sugar
  • Candy
  • Donuts/Baked Goods

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