Don't Fear the Carbs
Despite all of the media coverage surrounding low-carb diets
and the prevalence of high-protein eating plans, carbohydrates
are not evil things to be avoided at all costs. On the
contrary, when it comes to general nutrition, carbs are very
important. Carbohydrates are your body's primary sources for
energy. Carbohydrates are comprised of sugars, starches, and
cellulose. Your body must break down carbs in order to turn
them into glucose (commonly referred to as blood sugar).
Not All Carbs are Created Equal
There are two different types of carbohydrates. Discerning
among the two is important, because their impact on your body
differ significantly. Simple carbohydrates (sugar) like table
sugar, honey, candy, and the like, are digested quickly and
give your body an energy surge.
An example of the effects of simple
carbs is one we can all identify with. You know the "buzz" you
get from eating a candy bar? That's the carbs at work. I'm
sure you know the crash you feel soon after, too. You have
some energy for a while and then you veg out. That's a simple
carb for you, alright; they leave you high and dry. You'll
feel hungrier much faster after eating simple carbs rather
than protein or complex carbs. That's why after you eat
toasted white bread for breakfast, you're ravenous before
noon.
Kinder, Gentler Carbs
Then there are the "good guys" of the carbohydrate world,
complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are comprised of
starchy and fiber-rich foods. They are processed by your
digestive system much more slowly than simple carbs are.
Examples of complex carbohydrate foods are legumes, fruits,
grains, and other vegetables; starchy foods include potatoes,
wheat, rice, and corn.
Most complex carbs are high in
nutrient value; they contain plenty of vitamins, minerals, and
fiber. Complex carbs are the "best bargains for your calorie
buck." They help you feel more satiated (you feel fuller
longer) than simple carbs. This is because high fiber foods
are absorbed at a slower rate than other foods. In general,
complex carbs are far better for you than simple ones.
Carbs 'Got Work to Do!
Both complex and simple carbs supply glucose to your muscles.
Once the carbs are "manufactured" as fuel, a few things can
happen. The fuel is used right away for your body to perform
its regular functions or to exercise, it is stored as
potential energy, or, if your cells don't require anymore
glycogen, they convert into fat. (Incidentally, this
conversion to fat is the basis behind the many popular carb-reducing
diets.)
