Carbohydrates

The majority of people are completely confused when it comes to the topic of carbohydrates due to the mixed press which has surrounded them. Put simply, carbohydrates are important because they:

• Provide fuel for our brain and muscles – essential for training;
• Allow for peak performance - reducing fatigue, helps boost immune system, preventing injury & optimising recovery.

The following are examples of foods predominantly composed of carbohydrates:

Some people tell you to cut down or cut out carbohydrate foods to be healthy and lose weight. However, the reality of this is that you are cutting down on fibre and muscle fuel making you more prone to tiredness and constipation!

Carbohydrates will only make you fat if you are inactive, or if they come with a lot of added fat, for example, pastries, biscuits, cakes and chocolate. Your best options are therefore to choose the least processed grain & cereal foods.

As you may have realised, I have merely skimmed the surface with regards to the topic of carbohydrates, because of this I will introduce and discuss the hot topic of Glycaemic Index (GI) carbohydrates in another segment.