HEALTH TIP #33:
Carbohydrates
– Good or bad?
Why are carbohydrates (carbs) getting a bad
reputation? A lot of people are choosing low or no carbohydrate diets, either
to lose weight or to help their performance as athletes. However, this approach
may be counterproductive to achieving your goals. Food sources such as bread,
pasta, rice, potatoes and sometimes fruit are perceived to be fattening and are
being replaced by high protein and high fat foods, such as meats, nuts, protein
shakes, etc.
The truth is that carbohydrates are
essential as they are the main fuel for your body, especially the brain and
muscles, the same way gas is the main fuel for a car. If a person does not get
enough energy from carbohydrates, such as grains, fruit and milk products, they
are at risk of losing muscle mass, dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.
The issue for many people is the quantity and the quality of carbohydrates they tend to eat on a regular basis. Many
people tend eat large portions of potatoes and refined grains, such as white
bread, rice and pasta as well as dessert. Replacing these
with healthier choice carbs (outlined below) will provide the energy and proper
nutrients that allow you to achieve all your goals.
Here are a few tips to make sure that
you’re getting the required carbohydrates in your day:
·
Have at
least 1 serving of whole grain food at each meal (e.g. 1 slice bread, ½ cup
brown rice or whole wheat pasta, etc.)
·
Have 3-4
servings of fruit per day (e.g. medium size apple, orange, peach or pear, small
banana or ½ cup cut up fruits)
·
Have 2
servings of low-fat or fat-free milk products (e.g. 1 cup of milk, ¾ cup
yogurt, 1 oz. of cheese)
When it comes to achieving your goals,
making healthy, sustainable food choices is the key to long term success. There
is a lot of misinformation available when it comes to carbohydrates, so whether
you are trying to enhance your performance as an athlete or simply trying to
live a healthier life, a Registered Dietitian is the most trusted source of
nutritional guidance.
Call us for your 50% discount on your first consulation now !