Carbohydrates tend to get a bad rap in relation to weight management. A popular question I get when I discuss weight loss strategies with my patients is if they should cut out the carbs and choose more protein. As you probably know, there are always fads in nutrition and sometimes the USDA’s MyPlate gets criticized because it doesn’t got along with that fad. MyPlate’s recommendations have been heavily researched for many, many years and science has proven that this balance is what keeps our body functioning at its highest abilities. 1/4 of your plate should be grains and we recommend at least half of your day’s intake be from whole grains over the white grains. There is a great deal of biochemistry that backs this recommendation, but more basically put, the reason why is that our brain and central nervous system depend on adequate carbohydrates for energy. Proteins and fats can be used for energy when there is not sufficient carbohydrate intake, however if this is done long term, it puts a great deal of stress on the body as the processes to convert proteins and fats into energy are not as efficient. An insufficient intake of carbohydrates long term can lead to significant issues with the kidneys, liver, and other major organs and can even result in death due to ketosis. Carbohydrates do have a purpose in our diet and a moderate intake is essential for fueling our body with energy as well as weight management. Carbohydrates are mainly found in grains, but they are also found in some beans and lentils, fruits, dairy products, and a few starchy vegetables. You have heard me discuss it before, but again…moderation is key!!
-Kelsey