Fuel For the Long Haul: Carbohydrates
“Carbs are bad.” “Carbs make you gain weight.”
Sound familiar?
Carbohydrates have gotten a bad reputation, but they are one of your body’s primary sources of energy - especially for your brain and working muscles.
The bigger question isn't simply, “Am I eating carbs?” but “What kind of carbs am I choosing, and how much does my body need?”
Fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and other minimally processed carbohydrate sources provide energy along with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
Compare that with frequently consuming highly refined carbohydrates and added sugars that can pack in calories with fewer nutrients and fiber.
Your activity matters too: someone performing physically demanding work or training hard may need a different amount of carbohydrate than someone sitting most of the day.
Fuel should support the work you're asking your body to do.
Learn to fuel with purpose. We don't need to fear food or mindlessly consume it - we can understand what it does and use it wisely.
Just as you wouldn't expect a vehicle to perform without the right fuel, don't continually demand energy, focus, and performance from your body without supplying what it needs.
CHALLENGE OF THE WEEK:
Upgrade Your Carb: Swap one refined/processed option for fruit, vegetables, beans, oats, potatoes, or a whole grain.
Pair Your Fuel: Combine your carbohydrate with protein, healthy fat, or fiber for a more balanced meal or snack.
Match the Demand: Notice your activity level this week and consider whether the amount and quality of your fuel match what you're asking your body to do.
NEXT STEPS:
As you come along this weekly year-long journey, I invite you to a complimentary 90-minute taste at what it looks like to experience a Healthy Culture in your teams, organizations, and homes. Find out more about our Healthy Culture Seminar through this link.
->Want to get clearer, specifically, on your Physical Health?
Contact me via any of these communication mediums , I’m happy to help!
In your corner,
Darien
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