Carbs are often frowned upon in the fitness industry as it is a common myth that eating carbs make you fat. In this blog we will discuss how increasing your daily carbohydrate intake may be beneficial for you.
Carbohydrates give you energy
You might have heard the term 'carb loading' and there is a meaning behind this term. You get fast and slow digesting carbohydrates that you can load before a workout to feel stronger and more energised. Slow and fast carbs are also known as complex and simple carbs. If you are trying to fuel a workout, complex carbs should be eaten a couple hours before training to give them time to digest however simple carbs can be consumed shortly before training. Below you can find some examples of complex and simple carbohydrates.
Complex Carbs
- Oats
- Weetabix
- Vegetables
- Whole Grains
- Beans
- Potato's
Simple Carbs
- Fruits
- Sweets
- Sugar
- Cereal
- Cereal Bars
- Honey
Give your physique a fuller look
If you are not eating many carbs then your body may be holding less water and therefore you will look flat. If you increase the amount of carbs that you are eating, your muscles will be able to hold more water giving them a more round look. This is why you see bodybuilders loading up on carbs before they go out on stage at a show.
Important Dietary Fibre
Many carbohydrate sources include fibre which is important for overall general health. Fibre is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and bowel cancer. Some example of foods that contain fibre is whole grains, beans, potatoes and more.
Using a carb supplement
There are some supplements available to boost your carbohydrate intake. Warrior Cyclic Dextrin is a great intra-workout carb source that can give you that extra boost in the gym to keep the quality of your sets high throughout your whole workout. Cyclic Dextrin is also designed to help maximise pump, endurance, work capacity and stamina.
