
Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients that the human body needs in order to function properly. They play a crucial role in providing the body with energy and are essential for maintaining good health.
Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then used by the body as fuel for various functions, including physical activity, brain function, and cell growth. This means that carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, especially during intense physical activity.
In addition to providing energy, carbohydrates also help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the development of diabetes. They also play a role in the production of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals in the brain that are involved in mood regulation and mental function.
Another important aspect of carbohydrates is their role in digestion. They help to slow the absorption of other macronutrients, such as proteins and fats, which helps to regulate the release of glucose into the bloodstream and prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Carbohydrates can be found in a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and sweets. It is important to have a balanced diet that includes a variety of different carbohydrates, as some types are more nutritious than others. For example, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are better choices than processed or refined foods, such as white bread and sugary snacks.
Carbohydrates are processed and used by the body in the following way:
- Digestion: Carbohydrates are first broken down into smaller units of glucose during digestion. This process starts in the mouth, where enzymes in saliva break down some of the carbohydrates, and continues in the small intestine, where the remaining carbohydrates are broken down by digestive enzymes.
- Absorption: The glucose produced during digestion is absorbed into the bloodstream through the walls of the small intestine.
- Blood sugar regulation: The glucose in the bloodstream triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas. Insulin helps to regulate the amount of glucose in the bloodstream by transporting it into cells, where it can be used as energy.
- Energy production: Once inside the cells, glucose is converted into energy through a process called cellular respiration. This energy is then used by the cells to carry out various functions, including physical activity, brain function, and cell growth.
- Storage: Any excess glucose that is not immediately needed for energy is stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen. This glycogen can be later converted back into glucose and used for energy when needed.
How is glucose converted into fat?
Glucose is converted into fat through a process called de novo lipogenesis (DNL). DNL occurs when the liver takes excess glucose and converts it into fatty acids. These fatty acids can then be packaged into triglycerides and stored in adipose tissue as fat.
DNL occurs when the body has an excess of glucose and there is no need for immediate energy. The glucose is then converted into fat as a means of long-term energy storage. This process is regulated by several hormones, including insulin and glucagon. Insulin promotes DNL by stimulating the liver to take up glucose and convert it into fat, while glucagon promotes the breakdown of glycogen and the release of glucose into the bloodstream for use as energy.
Importance of avoiding processed/refined carbohydrates
Processed carbohydrates, such as white bread, sugary snacks, and other highly refined foods, are quickly absorbed by the body and can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This can lead to insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes.
Processed carbohydrates are also low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and can contribute to chronic health problems such as obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Unlike whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, processed carbohydrates do not provide the body with the essential nutrients it needs to function properly.
In addition to their negative health effects, processed carbohydrates are often high in calories and can contribute to weight gain. They are often do not have a robust flavor profile (focused on salty and sweet) and lacking in nutrition, making it easy to eat too much of them and disrupt the balance of your diet.
Finally, consuming processed carbohydrates can lead to a vicious cycle of cravings and energy crashes, making it difficult to make healthy food choices. Over time, a diet that is high in processed carbohydrates can have serious long-term effects on overall health and well-being.
By choosing whole foods that are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and avoiding highly refined foods, you can help to support your overall health and wellbeing.
Any whole fruit, fresh or frozen, no sugar added. Any whole vegetable, fresh or frozen, no sauces. Any whole grain, see lists below. Any legume, if you add a whole grain this also provides a complete protein.
List of healthy whole grains
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- Barley
- Oats
- Bulgur
- Farro
- Buckwheat
- Millet
- Whole wheat, berries, bread and pasta (these last two should be eaten in moderation)
- Cornmeal (such as polenta)
- Whole grain cereals with no added sugar
These whole grains provide the body with complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for maintaining good health and preventing chronic health problems. When choosing whole grains, it is best to look for products that are 100% whole grain and have not been processed or enriched.
List of gluten free grains
- Rice
- Corn
- Quinoa
- Amaranth
- Teff
- Buckwheat (despite the name, it is not related to wheat and is gluten-free)
- Millet
- Sorghum
- Oats (make sure to choose oats that are labeled gluten-free as oats can be contaminated with wheat)
- Wild rice
These grains can be used as a substitute for wheat-based products for those who have celiac disease or a gluten intolerance. They provide a variety of nutrients, including fiber, carbohydrates, and protein, and can be used in a variety of dishes, including breakfast cereals, breads, and pastas.