Have you ever been told you should be on a low-carb diet? Are you contemplating a life without pasta, potatoes and paninis?
In that case, you’re probably wondering if all this low-carb stuff is worth the hassle. You also might be surprised that we have the occasional sandwich or savoury pancake on the I Quit Sugar: 8-Week Program…
Do carbs turn to sugar?
We get asked this question a lot. First, you need to know that there are two types of sugar in play – fructose and glucose.
Fructose, unlike glucose, is processed almost exclusively by the liver and linked to serious health issues like metabolic syndrome and heart disease. It’s found in soft drinks, juices and, of course, plain sugar. This is the one we avoid!
Glucose, on the other hand, is converted from carbohydrates. In moderation, glucose is a very efficient and essential source of energy.
“Glucose is a simple sugar which cells use to get short-term energy,” says nutritionist Emily Seddon. “In fact, it’s the preferred fuel source for almost all the cells in our body. At some point, the body can convert all food to glucose unless it’s seriously pure protein.”
That being said, simple and processed carbs can raise your blood sugar levels very quickly – and cause them to crash. So, a diet based on white bread and pasta isn’t going to do your body any favours.
Are low-carb diets healthy?
Low-carb diets are such a point of contention that we doubt the scientists will ever agree on the issue. However, a 2012 systematic review of the science linked low-carb diets to decreases in abdominal obesity, blood pressure, blood sugar, body weight and triglycerides.
One of the biggest testaments to the low-carb way is that – generally – people eat fewer processed foods. But it also means giving up nutrient-rich carbs, like sweet potato and whole grains.
Can low-carb diets be dangerous?
Relying on a diet that’s mainly protein and fats can also be harmful. One of the biggest complaints on going low-carb is constipation, as fibre-rich grains are removed from the diet.
Low-carb may also be detrimental for people struggling with hormonal issues and excessive stress, according to dietitian Kelsey Marksteiner. “When the body is starved for carbohydrates (and often calories, as a result of the appetite-lowering effects of a low-carb diet), the body starts to increase levels of cortisol.”
In the end, what matters is which carbs you choose.
We’re never going to be anti-carb here. While our 8-Week Program is low-carb compared to the average diet, that’s because we choose our carbs wisely.
“The fibre contained in some carbs helps keep your blood sugar more stable than others. Which is why we love vegetables, whole fruit, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Yep, those are all carbs!” says Emily.
At the end of the day, everybody is different and we all tolerate foods in our own unique ways. Though we’re pretty sure nobody benefits from Coca-Cola!
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