Top Facts About Carbohydrates That You Need To Know

The low-carb diet or the high-carb diet is the latest fad now among many. There have been several discussions all over about this and some are actually not quite aware of this diet. Some dietitians advice to follow a low-carb diet, meanwhile others advise people to follow a high-carb one.

Not many are aware of carbohydrates and how it has to be included in our balanced diet. Carbohydrates belong to a class of biomolecules that play an important role in the case of energy transportation, fertilization, healthy functioning of the immune system and blood clotting.

Foods with carbohydrates should not be completely avoided and it is important to know more on the facts about carbohydrates (or carbs, as many know).

Also Read: Low-Carb Diets That Affect Your Health

Carbohydrates also act as long-term food storage molecules and also provide structural support for the cells and their protective membranes. Foods that have a high starch content like beans, potatoes, rice, bran and cereals are a rich source of carbohydrates.

There are mainly three types of carbohydrates. They are starch, sugar and fiber. Starch is also a complex carbohydrate that has multiple sugar units and a starchy taste. These do not cause spike in the blood sugar levels and are good for those suffering from diabetes.

Also Read: 7 Myths About Carbohydrates Busted!

There are several myths on carbohydrates that you need to know of. So, continue reading to know about the various facts about carbs.

1. Not All Carbs Are The Same:

Many think that carbohydrates are harmful and eliminate it completely from their diet. This is not true, only processed carbohydrates found in packed foods must be avoided. This is one of the top most facts about carbs that you should know.

2. Healthy Versus Unhealthy Carbs:

It is mandatory to differentiate between healthy and unhealthy carbs. Complex carbs take more time to be broken down and hence give you a satiated feeling, unlike the processed carbohydrates.

3. Combination of Carbohydrates and Protein For Body Mass:

Many bodybuilders go only for the protein diet for the formation of lean muscle mass. But the combination of proteins and carbohydrates is considered to be one of the best diets for building muscle mass and also for weight loss.

4. Eating Carbs Does Not Cause Weight Gain:

One of the most common misconceptions about carbohydrates is that high carb foods cause weight gain. But in reality, complex carbs are made up of fiber and these do not allow weight gain, as they take a longer time for digestion. This is also one of the facts about carbs that people have gotten wrong until now.

5. Carbs Do Not Cause Indigestion:

Many people blame it on carbohydrates due to problems of indigestion. In reality, they do not cause indigestion. Indigestion is actually caused by the presence of gluten. The symptoms of gluten intolerance include gas, bloated abs, stomach cramps and many more.

6. Carbs Do Not Make You Sleepy:

People think eating carbohydrate-rich food will make you feel quite sleepy or lethargic. But in reality, the carbs get converted into glucose and this enhances brain power, enabling you to perform better.

7. Carbs Are Heart Friendly:

Carbs are enriched with both soluble and insoluble fibers and these are highly beneficial for the heart. It also helps in lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels.