10 Reasons Why A Lower Carb Diet Is The Best Option For Long Term Health

Have you ever prepared for an interview? You research the company, pick out your outfit, and practice what you’re going to say in the mirror.

You understand that there needs to be a balance. You can’t go in looking like something off of the sidewalk with no idea who you’re even talking to — but you also don’t want to overdo it and be so precise that you sound like a robot.

It’s the same concept for carbs in your diet. A not-too-much / not-too-little approach (of the right kind) is best.

Understanding Carbs

According to Healthline “Carbohydrates are made up of three components: fiber, starch, and sugar. Fiber and starch are complex carbs, while sugar is a simple carb. Depending on how much of each of these is found in a food determines its nutrient quality.”

Most simple carbs can cause issues and should be cut out as much as possible — while most complex carbs in moderation can provide benefits.

Carbohydrates are found in many types of foods, not just pastas and bread. It’s important to understand what kinds of carbs are in the foods you consume and how much you are getting per serving.

Elimination

Let’s chat about the pros to cutting out the “unhealthy” simple carbs… like dropping a boyfriend in high school who spent a little too much time eyeing up the cheerleaders.

  • Weight Loss
    • Eliminating simple carbs reduces your caloric intake, which helps you burn your storage of excess fat.
  • Strength
    • Most simple carbs lack protein, and protein is essential for building muscle. When you replace simple carbs with other naturally derived foods, you’re increasing your protein intake.
  • Heart Health
    • Cutting simple carbs lowers triglycerides, a molecule that can restrict blood flow and cause heart problems. Lower triglycerides means a healthier heart.
  • Insulin Balance
    • Simple carbs make your pancreas work overtime, which then produces excess insulin. Cutting out simple carbs will help maintain proper insulin levels.
  • Vitamins and Minerals
    • Simple carbs lack nutritional value. When you swap simple carbs for other types of whole foods, you’re adding to your intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

So say goodbye to those simple carbs that cause chaos in your system.

Moderation

And then there’s the “good” complex carbs. It’s helpful to add these to your daily diet without going overboard… like not binging Netflix until it asks you if you’re still watching.

  • Energy
    • Complex carbs are really good at keeping you satiated, which acts like a slow burn that keeps energy levels up.
  • Brain Function
    • Glucose comes from complex carbs, and the brain needs glucose to fire important neurotransmitters that support memory and cognition.
  • Digestion
    • Our gut loves fiber, which can come from complex carbs. Fiber helps with bloating, irritation, and keeps things running smoothly in the digestive system.
  • Mood
    • The “feel good” chemicals in the brain get an extra boost when met with complex carbs, particularly serotonin, which makes us happier humans.
  • Metabolism
    • Complex carbs release fatty acids that speed up metabolism which encourages the body to burn fat.

So check out natural, whole, healthy options when it comes to complex carbs and add just the right amount to your regular diet.

Go Low

Remember to ride that teeter totter when it comes to carbs in your diet. Most simple carbs are a no go — while complex carbs are good in the right amounts.

You’ll feel good inside and out with the right carb management.