How To Use Carbs To Lose Weight

Have you been fearing carbs? Thinking they will take you further ways from your goals. What if we told you that you can have carbs, lose weight & gain muscle!

Let us tell you how! 

But first, what are Carbs? 

Carbs (Carbohydrates) are one of the three macronutrients. Carbs are the sugars, starches, and fibers found in fruits, grains, & vegetables. 

The main purpose of carbs is to fuel our bodies and provide energy. Why would we be scared of that? Well, many people are fearful because the overconsumption of carbs can lead to weight gain. Just like anything, too much of a good thing might not be too good for you.

What we have to learn is when to eat them and which carbs we can use to fuel our day properly. This is where knowing the types of carbs comes in handy. 

Wait, there are "types" of carbs? YES! Simple & Complex carbs, let us tell you about them.

Simple carbs are sugars and come from a more refined process. Our bodies can digest these fast, which is why they are quick energy. But these shouldn't be the main source of calories in your diet; high sugars can have the opposite effect on your goals! We have to be strategic when eating simple carbs. Enjoy them but make it useful!

What are some examples? 

• Raw & Brown Sugar 
• Corn Syrup 
• Glucose, Fructose & Sucrose 

What do these look like in my diet? 

• Breads
• Pasta 
• Baked goods 
• Fruit Juice Concentrate 

Complex carbs are packed with nutrients and fiber. These are slow-digesting, more filling, and help with bowel regularity! Complex carbs are great for overall health, really good for weight control and long sustainable energy.

What are some examples?

• Raw Foods 
• Beans
• Whole grains

What do these look like in my diet? 

• Veggies 
• Fruits 
• Oat meal 
• Brown Rice  

Okay, but tell me how I can have all the carbs, reach all of my goals, and have my dream body! 

Okay okay!

Here's how you should use eating delicious carbs to hit your goals!

1. Eat Simple Carbs 30-60 mins Before Workouts 

Simple carbs are fast energy; due to the sugar, it spikes our insulin and gives us a rush of energy. This is great for a pre-workout snack to pump you up with energy, and it will maximize your performance by using glycogen as fuel, plus it will aid in muscle recovery.

2. Eat Complex Carbs Post Workout

Complex carbs are great for long-term energy; having these after your workout will help you recharge and keep you feeling good!

3. Have Carbs At Specific Times

Eat your carbs for breakfast, lunch, and pre/ post-workout. Try and eliminate carbs at dinner. Use the carbs to gas your tank throughout the day; when you take them before bed, you cant utilize them as energy, and they are just stored as fat. 

4. Increase Carbs On Heavy Lifting/ Intense Workout Days

When you are doing activities that burn more calories and you need more energy you have to give your body more food, food = energy. On these days increase carbs to feed your body and muscles for long more intense workouts. 

5. Remember Food Is Fuel

Take the pressure off by enjoying the foods you like while using them at the right time to help you achieve your dream body! Food is not an enemy or a tool to make you "fat" its to provide energy and power you through your day! 

When you train hard and use carbs like this your body will feel properly fueled and will increase muscle size which will help you burn more and more fat. Without the proper food you won't be able to sustain enough energy for a proper workout and you wont achieve maximum muscle growth.

We hope this blog helps you, now go get some Carbs!!