In my last two blogs, I wrote about the benefits of the macronutrients fats and proteins. Now, we will review the third and final macronutrient we must consume: carbohydrates! Carbohydrates fuel many bodily functions and eliminating them long-term can be problematic for your health. Here are five reasons why you need to consume carbohydrates:
They Aid in Storing Energy - Energy is stored in your body as glycogen. Eating carbohydrates regularly creates a healthy reserve of glycogen to be converted by your body into energy at any time.
They Power Your Brain - Your brain uses half of all the energy your body makes. When you consume low amounts of carbohydrates, you may experience cognitive disruptions (like fatigue, irritability, or brain fog).
They Fuel Exercise - When you engage in aerobic activity (think running, biking, swimming (or cardio sculpt!), your body breaks down glycogen quickly for energy. Refilling with carbohydrates afterward promotes recovery and replenishes your body's stored energy for future use.
They Create a Healthy Gut - Carbohydrates contain fiber, which keeps your digestion functioning smoothly and promoting the health of the good bacteria in your gut. You will find fiber in starchy vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
They Ensure Protein is Not Used for Energy - When the body has carbohydrates stored for energy, it avoids using protein as an energy source, which is better used for other important purposes, like building muscle and repairing tissues.
For more information about how many carbohydrates your body needs every day or about the differences between different types of carbohydrates, consider a private nutrition coaching session with me.
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