Are carbohydrates bad for you?

You are not alone if you’re wondering whether carbohydrates are bad for you. It doesn’t take long on scrolling social media to find all sorts of food advise – from focusing on super foods to swerving certain aisles in the supermarket. Do carbs fit into a healthy diet?

Why carbs got a bad name

Over the past few years, popular diets like Atkins and keto have given carbs a terrible reputation. Many of us now feel guilty about enjoying a slice of wholemeal toast or a bowl of porridge. But here’s what you need to know: not all carbs are created equal, and your body actually needs them to function properly.

What do carbs do for our bodies?

Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. They fuel your morning routine, help you stay focused at work, and keep you going throughout the day. Without enough carbs, you’re likely to feel tired, irritable, and struggle to concentrate.

Good quality carbs also contain fibre, which is brilliant for your digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Fibre can help manage your cholesterol levels too. Foods like oats are particularly good at this.

Carb-rich foods provide other important nutrients as well. Here in the UK, we get lots of our Vitamin C from potatoes. However, you do need to make sure you’re cooking them in a healthy way – like boiling or mashing. Chips cooked with oil do not count!

Choosing your carbs

The key is choosing the right types. Wholegrains like brown rice, wholemeal pasta, and wholemeal bread are excellent choices. They give you steady energy and keep you satisfied between meals.

Oats make a lovely warming breakfast and are great for your heart. Wholegrain cereals provide iron, which is especially helpful for children. Pulses such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans are fantastic too – they give you both carbs and protein.

Don’t forget that fruits and vegetables contain carbs as well, along with loads of other nutrients. Sweet potatoes are tasty and packed with vitamin A. Bananas give you quick energy and potassium.

It’s all about balance

The secret to eating well is balance and variety. Rather than cutting out carbs completely, focus on including good quality ones alongside protein, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables. Your body will feel better for it.

Would you like to build a healthier relationship with food? Our free Beezee programmes help you understand what a balanced diet really looks like – no strict rules, no guilt, just straightforward advice that fits into your life. Find out how Beezee can support you today.