ARE CARBS UNHEALTHY FOR YOU? BUSTING THE MYTHS

Myth 1:

 

Carbohydrates mean bread, pasta, and rice; therefore conveying that only grains have carbohydrate.

 

Fact:

 

All plant-based foods and milk products have carbohydrates. In fact, fruits and veggies are pure carbohydrates.

 

Myth 2:

 

Carbohydrates mean glucose and starch.

 

Fact:

 

Fiber also comes under carbohydrates with glucose and starch and is essential for the digestion.

 

Myth 3:

 

All carbohydrates are the same.

 

Fact:

 

The source of carbohydrates ascertains the healthful benefits. Carbohydrates that are highly processed and give empty calories are bad. By empty calories we mean they are devoid of nutrition. Carbohydrates that are more natural and minimally processed are most healthy.

 

Myth 4:

 

We need to abstain carbohydrates to stay healthy.

 

Fact:

 

Carbohydrates are the body’s primary fuel. Our brain functions only with glucose, which is a carbohydrate. Low carbohydrates can also affect our sleep. So, we need carbohydrates not just to stay energetic and attentive but also to get a restful good night sleep.

 

Myth 5:

 

Carbs are fattening.

 

Fact:

 

It is not one food that makes one fat. It’s the excess of total calorie intake that makes one fat, whether it comes from carbohydrates, proteins or fats, it doesn’t matter.

 

Myth 6:

 

Fruits have sugar, so a no-no for the diabetic.

 

Fact:

 

Fruits release energy slowly due to two reasons: Firstly, they contain fructose, which the body converts into glucose to use; secondly, they come with fiber, which increases the digestion time.

 

Myth 7:

 

Low carb diets are healthier.

 

Fact:

 

Firstly, low carb diets make a person overdo the protein & fats, which in excess are bad for health. Secondly, a low carb diet generally becomes low on fibers, which are essential for digestion.

 

Myth 8:

 

High glycemic index foods are always bad.

 

Fact:

 

It is not the glycemic index of one food that increases the blood sugar levels. It is the glycemic load and the total quantity of the food eaten at one time that affects the blood sugar levels.

 

Myth 9:

 

High protein snacks can fuel a workout.

 

Fact:

 

It is actually the carbohydrates that fuel a workout. We need carbs both before and after a workout. In case of a longer workout, we need carbs even during the workout. Post-workout, the carbohydrates consumption promotes muscle growth.