3 Carb Myths Debunked
June 29, 2022In a time where we often label foods as good and bad, many misconceptions can arise about carbohydrates. While many people limit their carb intake (Think: keto or low-carb diets), carbs are actually an essential macronutrient. Cutting back on carbs too drastically can lead to low energy levels and cause you to overeat.
In reality, carbs aren’t the enemy. In fact, prioritising healthy, whole-food sources of carbs like whole-grain bread, brown rice, potatoes and oats such as those in OWN bars, will make you feel full thanks to the fiber content and will likely help you experience fewer cravings for sweets and sugars.
Let’s clear the air! Here are some of the most common myths about carbs:
Myth #1 Carbs cause weight gain
It’s true, cutting back on carbs will help you lose some weight initially. However, this often due to water weight loss. Once you return to your regular eating habits, you will likely regain the weight. Studies even suggest that overall weight loss results from keto or low-carb diets match other, less restrictive plans.
The idea that carbohydrates are more easily stored as fat than the other macronutrients, such as protein and fat just isn’t true. In fact, because the molecular makeup of a carbohydrate is so easy to break down, they are needed most in the body as a primary fuel for every organ.
When you’ve eaten significantly more food than your body can put to use, this is when it gets difficult for your body to break down these carbs. Choosing healthy complex carbs and matching portion sizes to your needs, is likely the most sustainable way to lose weight and to maintain the weight-loss.
Myth #2 All carbs are equal
There are many types of carbohydrate-containing foods and their effects on our health varies. While a lot of people think of bread and pasta when they think of carbs, carbs come in many forms.
Whole carbs are minimally processed and contain the fiber found naturally in the food. These include oats, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, barley, potatoes or beans. These foods are linked to an improved metabolic health and lower risk of disease.
On the other hand, refined carbs, such as sugar-sweetened beverages, white bread or items made with white flour can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
Myth #3 Carbs are bad for your health
Carbs play an important role for your gut health, as they help healthy gut bacteria thrive! Good bacteria help keep our gastrointestinal tract healthy and act as an immune barrier to harmful bacteria.
Moreover, complex carbs play an essential role in heart health and diabetes. The fiber found in carbs even has a positive effect on cholesterol, and helps regulate blood sugar and energy levels. Carbohydrates that can help regulate our gut health include whole grains, fruits, beans and vegetables.
The bottom line is, carbs are not the enemy. Including carbs in our diets in a healthy and moderate way, can provide more joy and satisfaction from eating and is a sustainable way of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The OWN Bars contain complex carbs, such as oats and nuts, that not only help keep you full longer, but also provide you with the energy boost you need to conquer your day!