Are carbohydrates bad for you?
No, but some sources of carbohydrates are healthier than others. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are healthy carbohydrates, while refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and sugary snacks, should be consumed in moderation. Most of our food contains carbohydrates, including sugar and starches, which provide the body with energy and fibre.
What about low-carb diets?
Low-carb diets force your liver to convert fats and protein into energy. This can aid in weight loss, but there are concerns about heart health and unknown long-term effects. Additionally, they can cause bad breath.
Low-carb diets and mood swings?
Yes, they may. There are many reasons for this; firstly, feeling deprived of your favourite foods may make you feel moody. Low carbohydrates can dysregulate blood sugar and cause symptoms of feeling ‘’Hangry’’. Lastly, a low-carb diet can lower mood as carbs help the brain produce chemicals that stabilise our mood.
Do carbs make you fat?
Overeating anything can lead to weight gain, including carbohydrates. However, complex high-fibre carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy diet.
What are complex carbs?
Complex carbohydrates provide steady energy as they take longer to digest. Examples include whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Types of complex carbohydrates include fibre, starch, and glycogen.
- Fibre is a complex carb that regulates digestion and promotes satiety.
- Starch, a complex carbohydrate composed of long chains of glucose molecules, is converted into sugar in the body to provide energy.
- Glycogen is a complex carb stored in muscles and the liver for energy. It is broken down into glucose as needed.