Nutrients are organic substances that are required by our body for many essential functions.
There are 2 types, Micronutrients & Macronutrients
Micronutrients are required in less quantity. Minerals and vitamins fall in this category.
While, MacroNutrients are nutrients that are required in larger quantities. Carbohydrates, water, proteins, fibers, and fats fall in this category.
In this blog, we will learn about Carbohydrates or simply carbs.
⇒ Hey before I start, it came to my notice that someone is spreading rumors that I’m quitting blogging and will not write any further. Obviously, you can see me here, and I am not going anywhere until I become everyone’s favorite blogger.
Anyway coming back to Carbohydrates, The main function of carbs is to provide energy to the body & the nervous system. Carbs are like fuel to your engine, and it gives the necessary energy for many bodily functions.
That one thing that is definitely present in your food is carbs and interestingly many people are afraid of it (we will discuss why).
Categories:
Simple carbs (The bad guys).
Complex carbs (The good guys).
Don’t be confused, let me tell you why Simple carbs are the bad guys. Simple carbs get digested quickly but cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Hence, these make you hungry fast and can even lead to overeating, weight gain & even diabetes.
Complex Carbs on the other hand are difficult to break down. This may sound wrong, but actually, that’s a good thing. If carbs are hard to break down, then that means it gets digested slowly and hence this will keep you full for a longer period.
All the pastries, bread, processed foods, chips, soda, etc. contain Simple carbs, you like them, you eat them, and then you want them more. They may give you instant energy or “wings”, but those are not long-lasting.
Food like Sweet potatoes, lentils, beetroot, mangoes, corn, oats, brown rice, apple, bananas, dates, raisins, kidney beans, chickpeas, etc. are good sources of Good carbs (complex carbs).
Types of Carbs:
Carbs are of 3 types
Sugar, Starch & Fibers
Sugar is simple carbs, they are easy to break and give instant energy. But, they can also spike your blood sugar levels. These should be consumed in moderation.
Starch is a complex carb, and you can find them in potatoes, several fruits, beans, cereals, etc. Their main function is to turn glucose into energy.
The third type of carb is Fiber, the main function of fibers is to regulate bowel movement and keep digestion in check.
Note-We shall discuss Fibers in a separate blog
Why trainers are telling you to avoid carbs?
I have explained in a very friendly language that Carbs provide great energy and are important nutrients. So, I don’t see any reason why you should avoid carbs. Yes, you should avoid simple carbs like processed foods, soda, etc. But if your trainer is telling you to avoid carbs completely, then maybe you should consider avoiding that trainer first.
Majorly 45-70% of your calories should come from carbs. For example if you consume 2000 calories/day, then 1100–1400 calories should come from carbs. That will help your brain, blood & nervous system function properly.
Eliminating carbs from the diet completely will actually result in weight loss, but that’s water loss. However, you need to find a balance with the carbs intake if you want a specific physique.
It is good to eat complex carbs after a workout session, as it will help in muscle repair and will give you energy.
I hope this blog was helpful in making you understand carbohydrates in the simplest language possible. Drop comments if you like reading it.
Consult a health expert before any new diet or plan.
In the next blog, we shall discuss Fiber in our food and its function.
There will be the next time, so Shine
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