Carbs: Friend or Foe?
Carbohydrates are surprisingly controversial, aren’t they?
With diet culture being so prevalent despite science debunking the basis for many of the fads you see today, it’s no wonder people (especially women) are unsure about consuming them.
Let’s shed some light on the most ostracized macronutrient.
Carbohydrates: Friend or Foe?
Carbohydrates are organic molecules that are used primarily for energy. In fact, they are the main source of energy for the human body. They protect muscle mass (protein) from being catabolized during exercise, and they provide the main energy source for the brain and nervous system when it’s broken down into glucose during digestion.
That all sounds important, so why the bad rap?
Because carbs can have a large impact on blood sugar, water retention, weight maintenance, hunger, and more. For people who want to maintain or lose fat lbs, this can make carbs seem like the primary road block between them and their goals.
So, should we embrace carbs or not?
The answer isn’t as extreme or polarizing as you might think. For most healthy people, choosing more complex carbs and balancing them appropriately with the other macronutrients, fats and proteins, will yield the best results for your body and mind.
And specifically for the purpose of building muscle — carbs are your FRIEND, not your foe.
Even for those struggling with type II diabetes, your life doesn’t have to revolve around limiting or avoiding carbs. With the appropriate balance and some guidance on which carbs to focus on, you should be able to enjoy a well-rounded, sustainable diet.
Do you need help figuring out the right macronutrient balance for you?
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CompletePerformanceAthletics@gmail.com