Are carbs all bad or do I need them in my diet?
Carbohydrates are not bad but some may be healthier than others!
Carbohydrates are often completely eliminated when a person begins a new diet plan. But carbohydrates are not all bad. Because of their health benefits, carbohydrates should be in your diet! If you do not have them in your everyday diet, your body may not function at its peak performance.
Carbohydrates are a type of macronutrient (other macros: fats and proteins) found in many foods and beverages. Most carbohydrates occur naturally in grains. They also can also be found in sugar drinks, candies, or processed foods.
Some items with a good source of CARBS:
· Fruits
· Vegetables
· Nuts
· Grains
· Seeds
· Legumes
There are three different types of carbs:
· Sugar
· Starch
· Fiber
Sugar is the simplest form of carbs. Starch and fiber are more complex carbs.
The Dietary Guidelines recommend that carbohydrates make up 45 to 65 percent of your total daily calories.
For example: If you eat 2,000 calories a day, between 900 and 1,300 calories should be from carbohydrates (225-325 grams). Do you think this seems like a lot for your diet? Well, If you are active ( or doing TC three times a week) your body needs these carbs to help with energy and recovery. Also, your body needs the energy to live, organs to function, nails/hair to grow, skin to stay healthy, fight off illnesses, etc!
Carbohydrates are your body’s primary fuel source. If you’re eating all simple carbs ( candies, soda, fried foods) a lot and not doing any type of exercise these extra carbs will just turn to fat in your body.
So, make sure you are paying attention to the carbs you are consuming.
Limit the foods with added sugars and refined grains, such as sugary drinks, desserts, and candy, packed with calories but low in nutrition. Instead, go for fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
ENJOY THE HEALTHIER CARBS ( who knows -- you may be able to do a few more burpees at TC)!
Stacy Houser
TC Founder and Trainer