Carbs: A Friend or Foe?

Carbs seem to be the big bad wolf these days. Why is that?

Well, the answer can be simple and complex. Let me explain more...

Carbohydrates make up one of the 3 main macronutrient categories. They are the preferred fuel source for our brain and most muscles in our body. However, they also tend to be the most over-consumed and over-processed. This is because carbs can be easily processed, refined and preserved to create a long shelf-life for easy storage. Carbs are easily refined and fortified with other ingredients, typically to make a ultra-flavorful and addicting food item that we can find anywhere on the shelves. This is one of the main reasons that they are overconsumed. We have to understand as the consumer that the intention of most manufacturers are to sell their products. I will say that there are some really intentional food companies that are out there to improve overall health and well-being. However, the bottom line is that everyone needs to make money, and this is where the important concept of taste and palatability comes in- good taste sells products.

Carbohydrates cover a broad spectrum of food and beverages. We can start with soda and candy, and end with quinoa and broccoli. Technically, vegetables are carbohydrates. Knowing this can help you understand that carbs technically aren't the bad guy- its the ultra-processed carbs.

As a dietitian, I work to help people better understand the role for each of the macronutrients our diets. Each person has been created to use fuel sources differently. This can depend on genetics, activity level, stress level, gut health and many more factors. For this reason, when you hear people provide advice to "go on a low-carb diet," this advice may not be for you.

The next reason why this is being recommended more lately is due to the low protein intake of most adults. Is this because we have stopped eating meat? Typically, that is not the reason. Why is it? I feel its because carbs have over-crowded our intake of protein, leaving us carb-addicted and low-energy. This also leaves our gut health compromised, due to the ultra-processing and foreign ingredients in our food.

So what is the answer? I feel that the answer is to really look at your diet and the way that you feel. If you are unhappy with weight changes, body composition changes or inadequate energy, then you may be getting the inappropriate amount of carbohydrates. Try to avoid the "noise" around dieting and health trends. Seek help from a dietitian. Eat more REAL food.