If you want to improve your overall health, you may want to include more carbohydrates in your diet. Carbohydrates are a complex set of nutrients that can provide your body with energy and a host of other benefits. However, it is important to understand what types of carbohydrates are the best for you, and how to go about choosing them.
The body uses carbs as its primary fuel source. It breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars, which are then used to produce energy for the brain and muscles. When your body doesn’t have enough carbs to supply the energy it needs, it will break down fat and muscle protein. Aside from providing your body with quick energy, carbohydrates are also helpful in promoting digestive health and reducing cholesterol levels.
While carbohydrates can be found in a wide range of foods, the best sources are unprocessed whole grains and fruits. These provide your body with many nutrients, including fiber, which aids in digestive health. Adding fiber to your diet can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease or stroke. In addition to that, fiber can prevent constipation and improve regular bowel movements.
Another reason to eat more carbs is because they contain antioxidants. Many fruits, vegetables, and legumes contain these. Combined with healthy fats, they can protect you from a variety of diseases.
Although carbohydrates are a great source of energy, they aren’t without their flaws. Added sugars, for example, can cause weight gain, while refined grains are a poor choice. Refined grains are largely comprised of fat and calories, while not offering much in the way of nutrition.
As a result, you should focus more on the types of carbohydrates you consume than the amount of carbohydrates. One way to do this is by avoiding added sugar. But, you can’t do that with every food you eat. And while you’re at it, it’s also a good idea to avoid processed, fried, and fatty foods.
You should also make sure you are getting a variety of nutrients, particularly if you have diabetes. Fiber is a nutrient that is essential to your health. It acts as a fuel source for good bacteria in your gut. Also, fiber can decrease your cholesterol.
Ideally, you should aim to get 45 to 65 percent of your daily calories from carbohydrates. This includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Additionally, you should consider adding in legumes, nuts, and dairy products. Be careful about how you eat your carbs, though. Doing so will keep your blood sugar at a healthy level, preventing the onset of diabetes.
However, you should also be cautious about eating too much sugar. Unlike proteins, which take longer to break down, glucose is a major energy source for the brain and other tissues. High blood sugar levels can hinder your ability to use insulin effectively, which can lead to your body converting excess sugar to fat.
