subject: Why Do We Need Carbohydrates For Our Body? [print this page] Why Do We Need Carbohydrates For Our Body?
Why do we need carbohydrates for our body? This is certainly question that many people ask themselves. We often hear that they can be detrimental if you are trying to lose weight, but certainly they are part of a balanced diet and are necessary component alongside proteins and fats. Without any one of these your bodily functions are likely to break down and you will not be leading a fully healthy lifestyle.
As you take carbohydrates on board they will be broken down and converted into glycogen. Glycogen is the primary source of energy for your body and it is absolutely essential both for your daily activities and also when you are undertaking exercise. It is easily accessible and assimilated into your blood unlike fat and protein which can often take longer to provide you with the energy that you need.
There are two main sources of carbohydrates that you can take - complex and simple. The complex sources can be found in foods like rice, pasta, potato, and bread. The simple sources are taken from fruit, chocolate, candy, and others. These are simple sources should be taken in moderation but are certainly essential to your body functions.
Generally, simple carbohydrates are very useful for immediate energy boosts. It is for this reason that they are usually taken before and after any exercise. They should, on the other hand, not necessarily be used for sustained energy release.
You also need to incorporate carbs into your diet because they contain necessary vitamins and minerals that you need as part of a fully functioning lifestyle. For example, you need fibre in your diet and this can only be interested when you eat fruit, vegetables, and pulses.
Overall, therefore, if you really want to have a fully functioning diet and then carbs will be absolutely necessary. They are important for energy and will contain essential vitamins and minerals that you require.
