Carbohydrates — Friend or Foe?

The diet buzz right now, that I suspect will wither soon, is Keto. Before Keto, similar high protein, low carb diets included Atkins and Zone. There is no doubt that restricting – or eliminating – carbohydrates results in rapid and significant weight loss for many, and further may be beneficial for seriously overweight individuals or those who have diabetes. For the masses, however, such restriction is not necessary, hard to maintain, and results in nutrient and fuel deprivation. 

Why eat carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are foods that get converted into glucose (sugar) during digestion. Glucose is a source of fuel for our body. Glucose is also brain food. The brain cannot easily use other fuel sources (fat, protein) for energy.

There are essential nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and fibre found in carbohydrates that boost our immune systems, assist our digestive systems, and feed our brain.

Not all carbohydrates are created equal.

Refined and simple carbohydrates such as white bread, white rice, juice, and sugar will cause a spike in blood sugar when consumed, break down faster, and are converted into fat faster.

Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, and certain fruit and vegetables (potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, yams, broccoli, and other dark greens) break down natural sugars slower, allowing your body more time to burn those sugars before they turn into fat.

If you’re uncertain what foods are complex carbohydrates, there are numerous internet sites that will guide you, but as a general rule:

• Avoid fruit juice; eat the apple;

• Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables daily;

• Choose whole grains;

• Mix up the grains (barley, quinoa, amaranth)