Top 10 Reasons to Eat Carbohydrates…
Energy Some body tissues rely solely on glucose (carbohydrate) for energy. The Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) recommend 130 grams of carbohydrate daily to provide adequate energy for normal body functioning.
Brain Power Glucose (carbohydrate) is the preferred fuel for the brain. Get smart…eat carbs.
Muscle Power Carbohydrate can produce energy three times faster than fat to support the energy needed for physical activity. Muscles prefer glucose (carbohydrate) for intense activity.
Weight Control Weight loss is achieved by altering the energy balance equation—either decreasing caloric intake or increasing physical activity. Long-term weight management is difficult on a lowcarbohydrate diet because of the limited food choices.

In addition, some products are made “low carb” by substituting wheat protein or soy and nut flours. These substitutions are high in protein and fat, resulting in a similar, or even higher, caloric content than their “high carb” counterparts. They also often cost more.
Decrease Dehydration and Constipation Each gram of carbohydrate stored by the body has 3 grams of water stored with it. The initial rapid weight loss that can occur with low carbohydrate diets is due to this water loss, not fat loss. Continued low carbohydrate consumption leads to continued loss of stored water that can lead to dehydration. Lowcarbohydrate diets also are low in fiber. Dehydration plus low fiber intake equals constipation.
Decrease Heart Disease Risk A low-carbohydrate, low-fiber diet is high in animal protein, cholesterol, and saturated fat. This type of diet increases risk of heart disease.
Decrease Cancer Risk Fruits and vegetables, which contain carbohydrates, also contain antioxidants and phytochemicals. These components of fruits and vegetables appear to prevent cancer.
Decrease Blood Pressure Fruits and vegetables contain carbohydrates and minerals—such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium—which decrease risk for high blood pressure.
Calcium Counts High protein intakes over time can increase the loss of calcium in the urine. Calcium loss can increase the risk of kidney stones and osteoporosis. In addition, many low-carbdiets restrict milk because of its carbohydrate content.
Tastes Good! Carbohydrates, including cereal, bread, pastas, rice, fruits, and vegetables add variety and flavor!
Source:
Iowa State University—University Extension
For additional resources, visit these Web sites:
ISU Extension Answer Line www.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/ or call 1-800-262-3804
ISU Extension Nutrition www.extension.iastate.edu/healthnutrition/
ISU Extension Publications www.extension.iastate.edu/pubs
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