4 Reasons Why Carbohydrates Are Awesome

January 11, 2024

a slice of bread with blueberries, oranges and strawberries on a blue table
Although carbs are one of three macronutrients that our bodies need to survive and function, they get a bad rap. The fact is, carbohydrate-rich foods such as pasta or bread, often labeled as “bad”, provide vital nutrients that benefit the body and mind. Let’s look at some of the reasons why carbs are awesome.

Fiber Filled

Did you know fiber is a type of carbohydrate? Fiber is not broken down for energy, like other kinds of carbohydrates, but it’s still crucial for our health. You can get a lot of benefits from fiber, from lowering cholesterol and protecting against heart disease to preventing constipation and diarrhea. Soluble fiber traps cholesterol and removes it from your system while insoluble fiber provides bulk to stool and keeps things moving. Fiber also acts as a probiotic and feeds the good bacteria living in your gut, which in turn boosts your immune system. Carbohydrate-rich foods such as quinoa, fruits, oats, vegetables, whole-wheat breads, corn, potatoes, beans, barley, and more are excellent sources of fiber.

Brain Boost

The brain primarily relies on glucose, a type of carbohydrate, as its main source of energy. Glucose is obtained through the breakdown of complex carbohydrates in our food into simple sugars, which are then transported to the brain. Glucose metabolism in the brain involves the conversion of glucose into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule used by cells to store and transport energy. Mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells, play a crucial role in this process by breaking down glucose into ATP3. The brain’s high energy demands are due to its rich concentration of nerve cells, or neurons, which are continuously active and require a constant supply of fuel. Functions such as thinking, memory, and learning are closely associated with glucose levels and how efficiently the brain utilizes this energy source. Without enough glucose, our ability to concentrate and control our emotions is reduced. You might have noticed brain fog and feeling “hangry” when you get hungry. Overall, carbohydrates, specifically glucose, provide the brain with the energy it needs to carry out its various functions, and maintaining stable glucose levels is important for optimal brain performance.

Protein Pair

Grains, a carbohydrate-rich food, do double duty and provide amino acids alongside the energy they give. Our body uses 20 different types of amino acids to build all the proteins in the body. Think of amino acids as individual Lego blocks that can be combined in various ways to create larger protein structures. Although our body can produce most of these amino acids on its own, there are 9 that we can’t, and therefore, we need to consume them through our diet. All 9 essential amino acids are readily available in animal protein but what if you prefer plant-based protein? Many plant proteins, such as beans, nuts, and seeds are missing some amino acids and are therefore incomplete. Grains provide the missing amino acids to act as the perfect companion to plant proteins. Winning combos include peanut butter and bread, beans and rice, hummus and pita, and pecans and oats.

Maximum Micronutrients

Carbohydrate-rich foods, such as dairy products, grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, are packed with an array of vital micronutrients. Potatoes, for example, are particularly noteworthy for their high potassium content, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and supporting proper nerve and muscle function. Similarly, strawberries, bell peppers, and citrus fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C, a crucial antioxidant that boosts the immune system and promotes collagen production for healthy skin.


Grains also provide micronutrients. Cereal grains like wheat offer a range of essential micronutrients, including selenium, manganese, phosphorus, copper, and folate. Selenium is essential for thyroid health and has antioxidant properties, while manganese supports bone health and regulates blood sugar levels. Phosphorus is crucial for the formation of strong bones and teeth, while copper aids in producing red blood cells and collagen. Finally, folate is vital for cell division and DNA synthesis, making it particularly important for pregnant women. Overall, incorporating a variety of carbohydrate-rich foods into your diet ensures you benefit from a wide range of micronutrients vital to various bodily processes.

Conclusion

Carbohydrates have so much to offer. Talk to your dietitian about the best way to incorporate carbohydrates for you so you can get the full benefits. Some of our favorites include quinoa, wild rice, whole wheat products, corn chips, and oats. To learn more about carbohydrates and other macronutrients, check out our online Nutrition 101 class- a bite-sized course designed for quick learning!

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Diana Figueroa, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, RD, LD

Diana Figueroa

RD, LD
Habla Español
Licensed in TX

Clinical Manager & Provider Outreach Coordinator

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