Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for your body, fueling your cells and organs so they can work well. But what if you completely cut them out of your diet?

Our bodies break down carbohydrates into glucose, which is then utilized by our cells to create ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the fuel for our metabolism. Even though ATP can come from both carbs and fats, your body tends to favor carbs as its main energy source. Any extra carbs can be saved as glycogen for later energy needs  primarily stored in the liver and muscles.

People can’t really cut out carbs completely since nearly all foods consist of a mix of macronutrients. But when we don’t get enough carbs in our diet, a few things start to occur.

Impact On The Body

Since every organ relies on ATP to work properly, the body will always find ways to generate it. Although your cells can create ATP from fat through a process called ketosis, your brain actually favors glucose as its main energy source. If the body lacks sufficient glucose from carbohydrates to make ATP, it can also break down proteins from muscle to produce ATP. It can result in muscle mass loss, which is not ideal.Even though ketosis can help minimize muscle breakdown, some muscle will still be used to create glucose.

Eliminating carbs entirely would lead to not getting enough fiber, which can harm your gut and digestive health. Dietary fiber is crucial for regular bowel movements and serves as nourishment for the microbiome, making it vital for overall health. Fiber also plays a key role in controlling cholesterol, supporting heart health, and maintaining metabolic health. While carbs are necessary, the kind of carbs you eat matters just as much.

It’s always better to go for minimally processed and wholesome carbs.

Ultra-processed carbs that offer little to no nutritional value should be eaten sparingly. Instead of completely eliminating carbs, the goal is to maintain a balanced diet that includes complex carbohydrates, enough protein and fat, along with a good amount of fruits and veggies.

A low carb or keto diet could be helpful for some groups of people. For instance, a keto diet is recognized for its ability to help control seizures in epilepsy.

DISCLAIMER: This article is derived from information available in the public domain. It’s always a good idea to check your doctor before beginning any new routine.

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