Let me start by saying this. CARBS are not the enemy and can be very beneficial in reaching fitness goals. I speak from personal experience, during my fitness journey, at one point I lost 50 pounds and was still enjoying carbohydrates. Carbohydrates were also a great fuel source during my workouts. With that being said, it’s important to know what the different kinds of carbohydrates are and what they do. By understanding them a little better they can help reach fitness goals. So, let’s start with the difference between simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. 

Simple Carbohydrates vs Complex Carbohydrates. What’s the difference? 

Let me try to summarize it like this. Complex Carbohydrates take longer to digest, less likely to spike blood sugar levels, and contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The two types for Complex Carbohydrates are Fiber and Starch. Complex Carbohydrates aid in digestion and feeling fuller longer. A few examples of Complex Carbohydrates are fruits, beans, and vegetables. 

Simple Carbohydrates digest quickly and spike blood sugar levels which can (depending on the food) lead to a quick burst of energy. The two types of sugars are naturally occurring sugars and added sugars. An example of naturally occurring sugar is fruits. An example of added sugars would be soda, ice cream, and candy. 

The Challenges Carbohydrates Cause When Trying to Reach Fitness Goals

I believe that carbohydrates when used properly can be a real game changer in reaching fitness goals. BUT I do know the challenges they can cause when someone is trying to lose weight and lower body fat percentage. First, due to the convenience of being able to access fast food, order food to be delivered, and go to restaurants. Carbohydrates are easily accessible, which means that the temptation to have them is everywhere and constantly present. Second, from personal experience some carbohydrate sources may cause water retention and make the scale go up for a few days before going down again. By the weight going back up it can make an individual start doubting their progress and thinking that they did something wrong. When in reality they haven’t done anything wrong. Third, carbohydrates are very easy to consume a lot of. Especially, the added sugar ones like soda, ice cream, and candy.

How to Limit These Challenges Carbohydrates Can Cause When Trying to Reach Fitness Goals

For me, what has worked on my fitness journey is first being aware that carbohydrates are not the enemy and that they can affect tracking weight on a scale. I would focus on not being discouraged if after a high carbohydrate meal or day the scale went up. If everything else is on point the scale will come back down. Another thing is focusing on having enough complex carbohydrates to help with staying full. When going to the gym, I found that fruits and vegetables are amazing pre-workout meals. I’m especially a big fan of apples but that’s just me.

Common Question: How many calories are in Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram. So, for example, if you eat a food that has 30 grams of carbs that means it has 120 calories from carbohydrates.

Summary

I think having complex carbohydrates helps with feeling fuller and fruits and vegetables are great for energy. By understanding carbohydrates, a little bit better it’s easier to enjoy them and limit or even avoid the challenges they can cause when trying to reach fitness goals. 

Click the link below to read next fitness tip. 

https://routinelyfit.com/supplements-can-not-replace-a-healthy-diet/