BUSTED: 3 Biggest Myths about Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are one of the main nutrients your body needs along with fat and protein. Our body breaks down carbs into glucose that provide energy.

Below are some of the common misconceptions and the science-backed truth.

Myth 1: Carbs make you fat

The truth: Many crave-inducing carbs like chips, candy, cookies are high in sugar and low in fiber. The truth is people gain weight, not because carbs are bad, but they’re having too much. They are in fact, nutrient-rich carbs like fruit, vegetables, and grains that are thought as nutritionally-poor ones.

Myth 2: All simple carbs are unhealthy

The truth: Simple carbohydrates can raise blood sugar levels because they have high glycemic index. Simple unrefined carbs like dairy and fruit are healthy. Complex carbs, however, are digested and absorbed at much slower rate as they have low glycemic index. Grains such as bulgur, quinoa, and some pasta and starchy vegetables are some examples.

Concentrating more on complex carbs that are rich in fiber will keep you fuller for long, without the calorie load.

Myth 3: Low-carb diets are the only way to lose weight

The truth: Our bodies rely on glucose to function optimally, especially our brain. If you don’t get enough carbs, eventually your body will go into a state of ketosis? meaning it’s burning fat, instead of glucose, for fuel.

Other side effects like chronic bad breath, anxiety, fatigue and constipation may happen too.

Instead of not taking carbs at all, focus on the smaller portion, high-fiber, complex carbohydrates meals.