Carbohydrates often get a bad rap due to the association of their excessive consumption with weight gain, obesity, met-abolic syndrome, and diabetes.
This phenomenon, which some researchers call “carbotoxicity” promotes the idea that the ex-cessive consumption of all types of carbohydrates favors the development of chronic diseases. For this reason, many low car-bohydrate diets have become popular among people interest-ed in losing weight or managing blood sugar levels. They are even in favor among seasoned athletes.
However, several other studies have demonstrated that the quality of carbohydrates that people consume is as important as the quantity. This finding suggests that rather than all carbs being “created equal,” some options are better than others for health.
Carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient, providing the body with energy and dietary fiber to support good health. Excessive consumption of car-bohydrates is associated with weight gain and an increased risk of the development of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes.
Despite their bad rap, however, carbohydrates offer many health benefits when a person frequently consumes sources of complex carbs and dietary fiber in favor of refined carbs and sugar-sweetened beverages.
Before making changes to their diet, people should speak with a doctor or registered dietitian to determine their specific carbohydrate needs to optimize their health outcomes.
