Curb your Carbohydrates
Nutrition information is constantly evolving. At any given time there will be one or two macronutrients trending upwards and downwards. We've been through the low-fat era and the high protein era. We're currently in the low-carb era, often referred to as "Carbo-hysteria".
A lot of carbohydrate concern would be better directed at ultra-processed foods such as biscuits and chips. These mass-produced products combine the power of sugar, fat and salt. Ultraprocessed foods are high in empty calories, low in nutrients and extremely addictive. In adequate quantities they can slow your metabolic rate and damage both your physical and mental health.
In contrast, plant-based carbohydrates are nutrient-dense and a source of fibre, vitamins and minerals. In the short term they fuel your body and mind to create energy and vitality. In the long term they offer significant protection against lifestyle-related diseases.
So assessing a diet just in terms of daily grams of carbohydrate is futile when some types are so clearly negative and some types are so clearly positive. "Low carb" generally refers to anything under 150 grams per day but the quality of the carb has a much greater impact than the quantity.
The number of grams your body physically needs will depend on your general health, your level of activity and your biotype. The number of grams appropriate for your lifestyle will depend on your goals. If you're wanting to compete on a stage wearing a bikini you won't be able to eat too many carbs. If you're comfortable with curves and you just want to be in a healthy weight zone then you can afford a few treats.
When assessing your health it can be helpful to take stock of your general carb consumption. Keeping a food diary for a short period of time is a great way to do this. Reflecting on your numbers might encourage you to edge down your total carb count or edge up the percentage of plant-based foods within it. You'll achieve optimal health and energy from eating your carbs as close to your natural state as possible. But it's still ok to enjoy a high-calorie, low-nutrient, carb-laden treat. If you enjoy it mindfully it's good for your soul.
A lot of carbohydrate concern would be better directed at ultra-processed foods such as biscuits and chips. These mass-produced products combine the power of sugar, fat and salt. Ultraprocessed foods are high in empty calories, low in nutrients and extremely addictive. In adequate quantities they can slow your metabolic rate and damage both your physical and mental health.
In contrast, plant-based carbohydrates are nutrient-dense and a source of fibre, vitamins and minerals. In the short term they fuel your body and mind to create energy and vitality. In the long term they offer significant protection against lifestyle-related diseases.
So assessing a diet just in terms of daily grams of carbohydrate is futile when some types are so clearly negative and some types are so clearly positive. "Low carb" generally refers to anything under 150 grams per day but the quality of the carb has a much greater impact than the quantity.
The number of grams your body physically needs will depend on your general health, your level of activity and your biotype. The number of grams appropriate for your lifestyle will depend on your goals. If you're wanting to compete on a stage wearing a bikini you won't be able to eat too many carbs. If you're comfortable with curves and you just want to be in a healthy weight zone then you can afford a few treats.
When assessing your health it can be helpful to take stock of your general carb consumption. Keeping a food diary for a short period of time is a great way to do this. Reflecting on your numbers might encourage you to edge down your total carb count or edge up the percentage of plant-based foods within it. You'll achieve optimal health and energy from eating your carbs as close to your natural state as possible. But it's still ok to enjoy a high-calorie, low-nutrient, carb-laden treat. If you enjoy it mindfully it's good for your soul.