Health guidelines suggest consuming between 225 and 325 grams of carbohydrates each day as part of a balanced diet.
This constitutes around half of our nutrient intake based on a 2,000 calorie diet. So why do so many people choose to cut carbs out?
Popular diets like Keto and Atkins have made cutting carbs the trendy way to lose weight. But, our bodies still need this vital nutrient. Read our guide below for the top reasons to choose a low carb diet over no carbs at all.
1. Increased Energy
The human body needs three macronutrients to survive: proteins, fats, and carbs.
By cutting out carbohydrates, you’re missing a vital energy source. Carbs provide sugars which the body breaks into glucose. Glucose is your main source of energy, so cutting carbs will cause you to crash.
Of course, too many carbs can flood your system with too much glucose. This can lead to that post-meal hangover sleep. Find a middle ground with low carb foods.
2. Appetite Control
Not all carbs are equal.
Processed foods and simple sugars spike glycogen levels and make you hungrier. However, whole grains and foods low on the glycemic index can make you more satiated.
Legumes, leafy greens, and carrots are low on the glycemic index. This means that they keep you fuller for longer.
3. Avoid Temporary Weight Loss
Carbohydrates burn fat.
This might seem counterintuitive, but your body can’t burn fat without an energy source. Without the energy from carbs, your body will burn protein instead. This means losing muscle and not fat, which nobody wants.
Did you know you can even find low carb fast food? Plenty of fast-food chains offer low carb options including salads and grilled chicken.
4. Boost Your Metabolism
If you cut carbs to zero, you’ll lose water weight first. One gram of carbs equals three to four grams of water.
This is only temporary. Once your body realizes it’s missing vital nutrients, it goes into “starvation” mode. Your metabolism slows, and you’re more likely to binge eat.
Cortisol, the stress hormone, also goes up when you’re not getting enough carbohydrates. You’ll end up feeling sleepy and gain weight in the long-run.
5. Carbs Are Essential to Your Body’s Functioning
Carbohydrates are necessary for numerous health reasons.
They improve your mood by boosting serotonin levels, reduce stress, and build muscle. Different types of carbs like whole grains and fibers help fight off disease.
Processed foods can increase your risk of heart problems and diabetes. But, a low carb diet filled with legumes and fruits can prevent these issues.
Perks of a Low Carb Diet
You wouldn’t stop breathing or drinking water, would you?
Carbohydrates are essential for the body. Just like other necessities, you shouldn’t eliminate it. Reducing carbs can help you lose weight, but cutting them out isn’t sustainable.
Opt for a low carb diet to help lose fat. Boost your energy and metabolism with healthy carbs. But overall, listen to your body’s natural hunger cues and trust it to tell you what it needs.
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