Frequently Asked Questions |
- Won't carbohydrates make me fat? |
- When should I eat carbohydrates? |
- Why should I need carbohydrates? |
Just over half of our energy intake should come from carbohydrates, with an emphasis on less refined carbohydrates such as wholegrains (1). In fact many New Zealanders don't eat the required amounts or types of carbohydrates(2). |
It is recommended that adults eat at least six servings of breads and cereals each day and five of fruit and vegetables. An even spread of these foods over at least three meals is a sensible way of managing energy intake and appetite.Some people believe avoiding carbohydrate foods later in the day is a good way to reduce weight. This can be a disadvantage if exercising in the evening or early in the morning as blood glucose levels will be low, reducing concentration and increasing fatigue. The reality is that you will maintain your body weight if total energy intake equals energy output. Further, avoiding carbohydrate foods may lead to binging due to fatigue or low blood glucose levels. |
Carbohydrate rich foods are not only an important source of readily available energy but they also help maintain blood glucose levels and help maintain gut health. Too little carbohydrate in the diet can result in an imbalance in the blood known as ketosis or keto-acidosis. This is where the body's normal acid-base balanceis disturbed due to a build up of ketone bodies. Eating about 100g of carbohydrate a day avoids this condition. Ketosis is an abnormal state of metabolism.Active muscles prefer carbohydrate as a fuel source. Athletes during endurance training know to increase carbohydrate food intake when training intensely or for long durations. |
For further information please visit www.grainwise.org.nz
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