Whenever someone talks about exercise, health or nutrition, certain words get thrown around without any true or basic knowledge of what is being discussed. Such a nutrition concept are carbohydrates. Exactly what are carbohydrates and why are they important as the body’s primary energy source. Did you know that all carbohydrates are not the same? Did you know that there are good carbohydrates and “bad” carbohydrates? If you don’t know the difference, you could indeed ruin your health. After you finish this article, you will know that difference and you will know how to maximize the benefits to your health.
Some Basic Facts About Carbohydrates
What are carbohydrates? Carbohydrates are your body’s primary source for energy. Carbohydrates are made of sugars and starches. Your body must break down carbohydrates in order to turn them into glucose which is commonly referred to as blood sugar.
The Two Types of Carbohydrates
There are two types of carbohydrates (called “carbs” for short in the health and fitness circles.)
- Simple Carbohydrates - These are table sugar, honey and candy, which, when eaten, will give your body a quick energy surge. Then there is the energy crash where your body is left in a state of shock and jittery nerves because this type of sugar breaks down so fast in your body that it triggers an insulin spike and a consequent fat storage reaction. Too much simple carbohydrates such as those mentioned above taken into your system at once, like eating 4 chocolate eclair donuts and coffee for breakfast on an empty stomach, are considered “bad” carbs and in the long run are pernicious to your health.
- Complex Carbohydrates – Complex carbs are made up of starchy and fiber-rich foods. These carbs are processed by your digestive system much more slowly than the simple carbs. When we talk about complex carbohydrates, we are talking about foods like potatoes, yams, legumes, whole wheat, beans, grains, brown rice, corn and other vegetables. These are also high in nutrients; they contain plenty of vitamins, minerals and fiber. These complex carbs leave you feeling more satiated and feeling fuller longer than the simple variety. The reason for this is that being high in fiber, they are absorbed at a slower rate than simple carbs. Complex carbohydrates are the “good guys” of the carb world. And how much should you eat, you might ask? Though you may eat 5 or 6 small meals, thinking about your three primary meals which are your breakfast, lunch and dinner, each portion of carbohydrates on your place should be the size of your closed fist.
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