Carbohydrates get talked about a lot when you're trying to lose weight. They're considered to be one of the main providers of energy to the body, and they're sometimes called a healthy thing to eat. However, other people say that they're unhealthy and unsafe for you. What's the reality here? Read on to find out.
Energy Provider
Carbohydrates are indeed what provide your cells with energy. Your body breaks them down after you've eaten them and converts them into glucose, which can be used by cells as energy. This is why so many products are marketed to people who work out that are packed with carbs. It helps to provide a burst of energy for exercise, and keeps people feeling strong.
The Good
What's often referred to as a 'good' carbohydrate is really just a carbohydrate that is gradually absorbed into the body. These kinds of carbs are also called complex carbohydrates. Due to their chemical makeup, the body has to work a bit harder to break them down and convert them. This helps you to stay full for longer, which is a benefit to most people who are dieting. Furthermore, it provides a slow but steady flow of energy to your cells no matter what you're doing so you can get through your day.
The "Bad"
There really isn't any such thing as a bad carbohydrate, but people have begun to look at them differently over the years.
One of the biggest problems that gives carbs a bad name is eating too many simple carbs. This floods the body with glucose, spikes your insulin, makes you hungry again quickly, and can lead to issues like diabetes down the road. There's nothing inherently wrong with the carbs themselves in moderation, but eating too many and too fast can quickly wreck a diet.
Furthermore, many people are enjoying ketosis as a method of losing weight. This form of dieting dramatically cuts down on carbohydrate intake, forcing the body to burn fat instead of sugar or carbs you've just eaten first. Once again, the carbs aren't really bad, but this is a valid method of losing weight that works for many people. They often just label carbs as bad because it's a no-no for their type of diet.
If you like carbohydrates, they can definitely be eaten in moderation. Focus on increasing your complex carb intake, reduce your simple carbs, and consider a low-carb diet if you're looking for consistent and reliable results.
For more help with understanding how to lose weight, get in touch with a business like InShapeMD San Angelo.