Why we should lower carbs

Because carbohydrates are body's preferred source of energy, you burn all your available carbs before starting to burn fat. But in order to lose weight, your body needs to burn fat. By reducing your carb intake, you can burn fat sooner and lose weight faster.

Not all carbs are created equal. Some carbs break down faster than others, making rapid rises in blood sugar and insulin levels. These sugar spikes cause body cells to store more glucose as fat if it is not used for energy. Spikes in sugar also can lead to insulin resistance, which can develop into type 2 diabetes in some people.

The carbs found in highly processed snacks, such as cookies, crackers and candy bars, as wel as refined grains, such as white bread and white rice, are digested very quickly. The glucose level rises rapidly, then falls, creating hunger and craving for more carbs.

The carbs in fresh and less processed foods, including cooked dried beans, green leafy vegetables, nuts and whole grains, are digested more slowly. The effect on blood sugar is more gradual, and you are left feeling fuller. These foods also contain more fiber, vitamins and minerals than the higher in sugar and highly processed foods.

Low-carb supporters say that by eating fewer carbs and exercising more, you can lose weight and keep it off. However, for your overall health aim for a balanced diet. Besides limiting your processed carbs, have plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid foods with little nutritional value, and limit your intake of saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol and sodium.