Are carbs really bad?

Carbohydrates are a key nutrient that our body uses for energy, however they have developed a bit of a bad reputation the past few decades. Are they really as bad as the diet industry has warned them to be?

There are lot's essential vitamins and minerals found in carbohydrates, such as B Vitamins, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Calcium, Selenium and Magnesium. Carbohydrates are the body and brain's main energy supply, which are essential for every day tasks such as walking, working out, cleaning and even studying.

Carbohydrates are found in lots of different foods in different forms:

• Complex carbohydrates are less refined and found in foods such as wholegrain bread and rice, wheat, barley and oats. These carbohydrates are generally better for us, as they don't spike our blood sugar and are broken down at a slower rate, keeping us feeling fuller and more energised for longer.

• Natural sugars are found in fresh fruits and vegetables. These are not the same as free sugars as the foods contain nutrients such as fibre which release glucose more slowly and slow the absorption.

• Free sugars have a high glycemic index and are found in refined foods such as cakes, chocolate and white bread. These foods spike our blood sugar, and due to their lack of fibre, can be absorbed for energy very quickly. This then causes a blood sugar drop, which leaves us feeling lethargic and hungry again. These types of foods should be kept to a minimum and consumed in moderation.

So as we now know, not all carbohydrates are the same. Depending on the type, it will have differing effects on our body and hunger levels.

If your goal is weight loss, removing carbohydrates from your diet could do you more harm then good. As carbohydrates provide our cells and brain with glucose, when these levels are low this can lead to cravings (often sweet cravings because wants to get energy quickly). So instead of cutting out carbs from your diet, when you're trying to lose weight, focus on cutting down on refined carbs and increasing your consumption of complex carbs, as these will help to reduce hunger, stabalise blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full.

So in conclusion, as part of a balanced diet, carbohydrates are not bad for us, as long as were consuming the right types and keeping free sugars to a minimum.