Low-carb diets are getting very popular nowadays, with several programs labeling them as adversaries or unhelpful to achieving results. However, carbs are very important for the proper functioning of our organic system. Our body metabolizes them to produce glucose, a molecule by which we obtain energy. They are also important because they participate in the functioning of cells, tissues, and organs. Sugars, starches, and fiber are three forms of carbohydrates found in our meals, each of which has a significant impact on our health. For this reason, we would like to go over some of the key reasons why you should continue consuming foods that contain carbs.
As a Power Source
As we mentioned, carbs are the body's main source of fuel. Sugars and starches break down into simple sugars during digestion. They are then absorbed into the bloodstream and are called blood glucose. At this point and with the help of insulin, glucose enters the cells of the body. And this is where the fun kicks in, because whether you're going for a run or just breathing, our body uses glucose to provide energy for all its actions. Finally, the extra glucose is stored in the liver, muscles, and other cells to be used later or turned into fat.
As a Weight Control
Fruits, vegetables, and cereals are an essential source of carbs, and research suggests that a diet that contains this type of food helps us maintain a healthy weight. This is because these foods have a large volume of fibers in their composition, which allows you to feel fuller without consuming as many calories. Additionally, fibers are excellent for removing toxins from our body and keeping the intestinal flora in good condition. Despite what low-carb diets try to convince you of, there is no direct link between eating a diet rich in nutritious carbs and weight gain or obesity.
To Stay Healthy
On a regular 2,000-calorie diet, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that people include 275 grams of carbohydrates per day. In fact, there is some evidence that carbs consumption helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Stop eating carbs suddenly and for a long time could alter the functioning of our body, leave us without the energy we need to carry out our daily activities correctly and even harm our health. For example, many studies in diabetes show people can lower their chances of developing insulin resistance by consuming healthy carbohydrates, resting well, and exercising consistently.
For a Good Bowel Function
Dietary fiber is one of the three types of carbs that exist. Although dietary fiber cannot be digested by our small intestines, it aids in bowel function by increasing the physical volume of the colon and therefore stimulating intestinal transit. The intestinal microbiota breaks down several forms of fiber, such as gums, pectin, and oligosaccharides, after indigestible carbohydrates reach the large intestine. This improves the composition of our intestinal microbiota by increasing the total bulk in the intestine. It also causes the development of bacterial waste products including short-chain fatty acids, which are released in the colon and have health benefits.
For Your Mood
Another issue that might arise in your body because of not eating carbs is a loss of coordination. Unlike muscles, the brain does not store its own glucose and does not burn fat. As a result of the brain's lack of nutrition, the first signs of weakness and mental tiredness may occur. This will lead you to not be able to completely concentrate and not be able to perform your activities in the optimal way. Carbohydrates, believe it or not, aid in the maintenance of serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that induces relaxation and a good mood.
