Popular Philadelphia Nutritionist Explains Why You Shouldn’t Cut Carbs From Your Diet

Many of today’s popular diets promise fast results by cutting out carbs. However, eliminating carbohydrates is not the most sustainable or healthy way to lose weight. There’s a reason the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that carbohydrates make up 45-65% of an individual’s total calories each day—your body needs them!

Here’s why:

Carbs are your body’s #1 source of energy. Your body uses carbohydrates as the main source of energy for everything it does—from exercise, to breathing to your body’s organ functions. Without adequate carbohydrates, your body will begin to break down muscle and fat for energy, which isn’t ideal. You will also likely feel fatigued, dizzy or weak without enough carbs in your diet, making it difficult to complete work, take care of your family or get through a workout.

Your brain uses carbs for fuel. Carbs are your brain’s preferred energy source. In order to be mentally alert and perform your best at work or at school, you will need to consume carbs—preferably from nutrient dense, whole foods, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Muscle stores. Carbohydrates are necessary for building muscle. When consumed, carbs get converted into glycogen, which is the main fuel for muscles, providing energy to push through your workout. Building muscles is especially important after age 30, when most people begin to lose muscle mass.

Carbs contain fiber. Fiber is necessary for digestive health, blood sugar management, heart health and satiety. Not only will consuming fiber from carbohydrates help keep your digestion regular, it will also help keep you full after a meal, helping you to cut back on snacking throughout the day.

When it comes to carbohydrates, focus on nutrient dense foods like whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and of course—fruits and vegetables! Carbohydrates only become detrimental to your health when you’re consuming high amounts of processed and refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, candy and soda. These can spike your blood sugar and are less satisfying than whole grains because of their low fiber content.

If you’re interested in learning how to eat healthier, contact Yummy Body Nutrition at (484) 416-1090 or info@yummybodynutrition.com to schedule an appointment with a dietitian or visit https://yummybodynutrition.com. Meet in-person with their Philadelphia area dietitians or schedule a tele-health appoint from anywhere.  Most insurance plans cover free nutrition sessions.

Sources: EatRight.org