Carbohydrates and the Glycemic Index

Carbohydrates and the Glycemic Index

Carbohydrates have been the discussion of many dietary plans in recent years. The popularity of the Atkins and other no or low carb diets has given carbohydrates a bad name when it comes to a healthy diet. However, these claims are unfounded. This paper will discuss why carbs are good diet foods, how fiber affects your digestive health and weight, what lactose intolerance is and how it's treated, and what carbs have to do with diabetes and hypoglycemia.

Carbohydrates are excellent sources of energy, and thus good diet foods. Muscles, nerve cells, and the brain all need carbs as the fuel to run. In addition, a recent study showed that participants who ate a high-carb diet, ate the same amount of food (calculated by weight), but consumed 200-300 fewer kilocalories, in addition to less fat. And, they had a greater intake of many vitamins and minerals (Bowman & Spence 272).

Fiber is one of the three types of carbohydrates, along with sugar and starches. Fiber cannot be digested by the human body, and thus does not add to caloric intake. It provides a feeling of fullness for the eater and it aids in digestion and elimination. In addition, it may be helpful in treating diabetes and heart disease.

Lactose intolerance is the body's inability to digest lactose, which is a dairy sugar. It's caused by a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, in the small intestines. Treatment includes eliminating dairy products from the diet, yet, milk substitutes are necessary, to ensure that enough calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, and protein are consumed.