Are Your Carbohydrate Habits Unhealthy?
By Sara Butler
Carbohydrates are not your enemy. They have gotten quite a reputation over the last few years as the villain of the food world, but the truth is that your body needs carbohydrates to function optimally -- it's the type of carbohydrates you're eating, among other things, that can have an undesired impact on your health and wellness. Here are a few of the carbohydrate habits you should avoid in order to stay healthy.
Eating Too Low Carb
Some people can benefit from going on a low carbohydrate diet, but for the majority of people, it's not a good strategy for the long-term. Several studies have found that a high-protein diet can actually cause you to pack on pounds in the long run.
The bottom line is that your body needs carbohydrates in order to burn fat. You have to think about them as fuel for your metabolism. They're required to keep things running smoothly.
Eating Refined Carbs
Of course, another folly followed by many is eating carbohydrates that are too refined, such as pasta and white bread. These are the carbohydrates that give all carbs a bad name because they spike blood sugar and leave you feeling hungry later.
Make sure you eat complex carbohydrates to fuel your body right. Go for whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, fruits, and vegetables.
You Don't Eat Enough Fat
Yes, you need fat in your diet. But just like carbohydrates, you need the right kinds of fat to fuel your body. You should focus on healthy fats such as monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids. These fats help you to feel fuller for longer so you don't reach for that bag of refined carbs later when you're feeling snacky.
Eating the right kinds of fats can help you to eat fewer calories during the day because they'll leave you feeling satisfied. Look to foods such as nuts and avocados to supply you with what you need.
You Don't Refuel Right
After exercise, your body needs fuel to repair and replenish. If you're not eating a healthy, balanced snack after a sweat session, then you're not doing all you can to treat your body right. A snack with healthy fat and carbohydrates can help to replenish your muscles' glycogen stores and help to kick-start your recovery. Try whole grain crackers with peanut butter or a banana to hit the spot.
Carbohydrates are important to your health and wellness, so make sure you're getting enough to support healthy function!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fort Mill, S.C.