Carbohydrate Benefits: Top 4

Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients that your body requires to function effectively. Despite what you may think about them, carbohydrates can give your body numerous health benefits. In this article I am going to be discussing four of the top carbohydrate health benefits.

1) They provide your body with energy - The main role of carbohydrates is to give your body the energy it needs. When you eat carbohydrates your body breaks them down into glucose. This glucose is then transported to the cells that require energy via your bloodstream. Although your body can use fats and proteins for energy this process is very inefficient. Therefore, one benefit of eating carbohydrates is that they provide your body with an efficient, easy access energy source.

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2) They are rich in phytonutrients - Phytonutrients are protective chemicals that can be found in many plants. Different phytonutrients have different characteristics. Some act as antioxidants which protect your body from free radicals (harmful by-products that are released when your body uses oxygen) whilst others help protect your body from bacteria and disease. Plant based carbohydrates such as fruits and vegetables often contain these protective phytonutrients making them a very worthwhile addition to your diet.

3) They are a good source of fibre - Fibre has many health benefits. The most well known of these is that it promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. However, fibre also promotes good bowel health, protects you from a variety of diseases, keeps your blood glucose levels stable and helps you fully absorb the nutrients from your food. Certain carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables and wholemeal products contain high levels of fibre and by eating these you can enjoy all the benefits listed.

4) They are a good source of vitamins - Vitamins are micronutrients that help your body perform vital functions. They help your body break down food for energy, assist with cell production, support a strong immune system and more. Fruits and vegetables are rich in a variety of vitamins. Therefore, by eating natural carbohydrates (such as fruits and vegetables) you can realise multiple health benefits.

If you choose your carbohydrates wisely they can be a very valuable addition to your diet. Eating fruits and vegetables on a regular basis can give you all the health benefits listed in this article. Therefore, if you are not eating a variety of fruits and vegetables on a regular basis try and add them to your diet.