"I'm going to cut carbs to lose weight"
Thousands of dieters have muttered those few words, many of them en route to a quick relapse into a tub of ice cream. The reason for this is that your body needs carbohydrates to fuel daily activities. Depriving your body of carbs is like depriving your car of gasoline (hence the fuel reference). The reality is that carb consumption is very important to achieving your fitness and dietary goals.
For fitness, carbs are the most biologically available energy that make your muscles perform. Without carbs, you won't make any progress in the gym. In fact, your performance will likely suffer.
For diets, carbs play a tremendous role in regulating your metabolism. When you stop taking in energy, your body realizes this and gradually slows its energy expenditure. Another name for this slowing your metabolism, and that is NOT great for those who want to lose weight. The problem with carb intake is that too much can lead to fat deposits. Therefore, we recommend to eat carbs earlier in the day, and gradually tailor them off towards the afternoon. Eating too many carbs at night can result in excess energy and fat storage.
Make sure that you get your carbs from whole grains and vegetables. That way, you reach your daily intake of fiber, and also maintain your blood glucose levels to reduce cravings to snack later in the day.
Of course, you will lose weight if you decrease your intake of carbohydrates. However, the most effective way to lose weight and prevent relapses is to moderately decrease carb and fat intake, maintain protein levels and a balanced overall nutrition (possibly with the help of a multi-vitamin).
Good luck, and if you have any questions feel free to comment.
Cheers,
CNC Fitness Team
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