A few years ago, and even still today, people view carbohydrates as the enemy.
When people swear by their initial rapid weight loss on low-carb diets, it is usually water weight that they lose first - they are never able to sustain the weight loss adopting this diet for long. It is extremely dangerous to cut out any one food group, so if you are thinking of going on or are already on a low-carb diet, then please don't restrict yourself. We need healthy carbohydrates to live; for our brains to function properly and to provide ourselves with enough energy when we exercise. Without them, our muscles will waste away, and you could find yourself feeling incredibly weak.
Carbohydrates are the macronutrient we need the most in our day to day diet, with most people needing to consume between 45-65% of their total daily intake of food. Aim to eat healthy, natural grains such as wholegrain rice, quinoa, and plenty of organic fruits and vegetables. When we exercise, it's particularly important to consume carbs as this is the fastest source for our bodies to find energy. The starch, sugars and glycogen provide fuel for our muscles which is particularly great if you do any high intensity interval training (HIIT). Carbohydrates provide a number of other healthy benefits vital for optimum health as well including supporting your brain, kidneys and heart to function properly.
If you struggle to fit them into your diet, try adding some wholegrain rice to an avocado and chicken salad, or some oven-baked sweet potato to some steamed fish and green beans - trust me you will feel a million times better!
