Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates continue to be demonized as the macronutrient that contributes to obesity. In my many years of analyzing food intake, it is even more obvious to me that calories from all foods with inadequate physical activity are the culprit. Carbohydrates are the one nutrient that causes more fluid retention so some people get an immediate feeling of body swelling. But without quality carbohydrates, our bodies will not function well. The highest risk groups when it comes to carbohydrate restriction include children and highly active, health-minded people. Parents that restrict their own carbohydrates seem to also restrict their children's carbohydrates. I hear parents tell me "I don't know why my kids love their carbs so much!" The behavioral ramifications of saying this in front of your kids is another subject altogether. But the answer is that children need more carbohydrate because they are growing and are typically more active than adults. For the active, health-minded individual, I say that we need to balance good quality carbohydrates with appropriate portions of healthy fats and protein at each meal. Cutting them out altogether can make you feel sluggish and can impact your fitness and life quality – not to mention the nutrient shortfalls depending on the type and extent of the restriction.