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WHAT IS CARBOHYDRATES? Carbohydrates or Carbs are your body's main source of energy.Your body can use fat and protein as energy but it prefers to run on carbs. However, your body stores very little carbohydrates, so you have to keep fueling up on them. Carbohydrates should be your highest percent of food intake in your daily calorie intake, sometimes as high as 50% of your total calories. There are two different kinds of carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates and simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates found in pastas, grains, vegetables, beans, rice, potatoes, tend to be low in fat, low in calories and high in fiber. The sugars found in complex carbohydrates are absorbed slowly into your bloodstream causing you to feel full for a while and your blood sugar levels and energy levels stay at a even keel. Simple carbohydrates, also called simple sugars, are found in table sugar, processed food, and naturally found in fruit (fruit sugar called Fructose). These forms of carbohydrates are absorbed very quickly, causing your blood sugar levels to raise very high and soon after leaving you tired and hungry. CARB UP BEFORE EXERCISING? Carbohydrates are a very important part of a successful workout. Before your workout: Make sure you have eaten one hour prior to your workout.This doesn't mean a big complete meal, nor does it mean eating a sandwich or bagel 10 minutes before you start. It is recommended that you consume a couple hundred calories of complex carbohydrates, such as a bagel, or a couple pieces of fruit one hour before you workout. Protein is also recommended if you expect a long workout. During your workout: You will not need any food during your workout only if you find that you are totally hungry and feel weak. Consume lots of water before , during and after you workout. Sports drinks with glucose polymers(that assure you proper fluid replacement and energy)such as Ultra Fuel, and Hydra Fuel by Twinlab, Gatorade or any other drinks of the same are very beneficial to having a successful workout. Be aware that some of these drinks are very high in calories. After your workout: Make sure you eat within an hour after your workout. Especially carbohydrates.You will also have to combine protein, vitamins, minerals and a little bit of fat to assure your replenishing your body with the proper nutrients it lost through your workout. any questions email info@fitsite.com |
