This is part 2 of 3 in our macronutrient series. This time we are talking about carbs, which tend to get the bad name of the macros. Carbohydrates are essential for your body to function properly. Here are a few reasons why as well as some easy carb sources to get throughout the day.
Energy Boost
Carbohydrates serve as the primary energy source for the body, providing fuel for daily activities and workouts. Including carbohydrates in meals and snacks helps maintain energy levels throughout the day, enhancing overall performance during workouts.
Improved Endurance
Whether it’s a morning jog, an evening bike ride, a long hike or a CrossFit WOD, carbohydrates play a crucial role in supporting endurance during all activities. Consuming carbohydrates before exercise helps sustain energy levels and delay fatigue, allowing individuals to enjoy longer and more fulfilling workouts or outdoor adventures.
Faster Recovery
After a workout or physical activity, the body needs nutrients to repair muscles and replenish energy stores. Carbohydrates consumed post-exercise facilitate glycogen (your back up fuel) replenishment and muscle recovery, reducing soreness and supporting the body’s ability to adapt to training.
Enhanced Cognitive Function
Carbohydrates are essential for brain function, as glucose derived from carbohydrates serves as the primary fuel for the brain. Including carbohydrates in your diet helps maintain cognitive function, concentration, and mental clarity, which are beneficial for both work and exercise performance.
Muscle Preservation
Carbohydrates play a role in preserving muscle mass. By providing energy during workouts, carbohydrates help spare protein for muscle repair and growth, contributing to overall muscle health and strength.
Support for Metabolism
Carbohydrates are essential for maintaining metabolic health and supporting metabolic processes in the body. Including carbohydrates in meals supports efficient energy metabolism, nutrient absorption, and overall metabolic function, which are vital for overall health and well-being.
As you can see carbohydrates offer numerous benefits for you, including sustained energy, improved endurance, faster recovery, enhanced cognitive function, muscle preservation, regulated blood sugar levels and support for metabolism. By incorporating carbohydrates into your diet, you will feel better and perform better throughout the day and throughout your workouts.
FUN FACT: Did you know that carbohydrates and protein both have the same calories per 1 gram? They have 4 calories. While both serve different purposes in our body, if you have 20g of carbs or protein it is both equal to 80 calories.
Are you looking for some good Carbohydrate choices? Here some fast and easy ones to get in during the day:
- Oatmeal
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Granola or granola bars
- Squeeze fruit pouches (go-go squeeze)
- Potatoes
- Rice
- Quinoa
- Whole grain breads
