As a child, I was always thrilled to eat pasta right out of the colander. Each noodle was a delight, and I savored every bite like a culinary expert. Spaghetti was my ultimate comfort food, the perfect pairing for my life’s ups and downs.
Fast forward to adulthood, and I found myself entangled in the endless cycle of restrictive diets. With each new weight loss trend, I eliminated foods that were labeled “bad.” When simple carbohydrates were condemned, I sadly set aside my beloved pasta. Then, to my shock, complex carbs were demonized too! I followed the diet rules, reluctantly saying farewell to delicious roasted sweet potatoes.
For the record, I also faced my own struggles with an eating disorder, spending years in a painfully thin body. These diets, regardless of their scientific claims, only exacerbated my unhealthy relationship with food. I learned which meals would help me lose weight and which ones would keep it on, eventually leading me down a path of diet pill addiction.
But let’s get back to the joy of carbs. Since overcoming my eating disorder, I’ve rekindled the simple pleasure of enjoying a bowl of pasta. The steam rising and the al dente texture take me back to a time when I didn’t view my body as a problem.
Now, I don’t categorize foods as “good” or “bad.” Instead, I love discovering the nutritional value of previously maligned foods. Bread is back in style!
Insights from Nutritionist Sarah Thompson
Recently, nutritionist Sarah Thompson shared insights on the crucial role carbohydrates play in our brain and blood cell function. She also debunked the popular ketogenic diet, highlighting its origins. “The ketogenic diet was created to help children with epilepsy,” she explained. “The typical high-protein version people follow today is a far cry from the original, which was about 70% fat.”
Moreover, low-carb diets can deplete our bodies of an essential nutrient—water! For every gram of carbohydrate consumed, our bodies store about 3-4 grams of water. When people jump on the keto bandwagon for quick weight loss, they might not realize that the pounds they shed are primarily water weight, which can lead to dehydration.
“Your brain and red blood cells rely solely on carbohydrates for energy,” Sarah noted. “When you restrict carbs, your body activates a backup system to keep you alive.” Essentially, avoiding carbs can signal to your brain that you’re starving. Personally, I’d rather enjoy a hearty bowl of pasta than navigate these diet culture traps.
Curious about Sarah’s claims, I did some digging and found that the original ketogenic diet was intended for specific medical purposes, not as a long-term lifestyle. It morphed into a weight loss fad once diet culture got involved.
In a 2019 article, Dr. Emily Brooks, a gastroenterologist at a major medical center, explained, “When you starve your body of carbs, it turns to fat for energy.” This results in fat loss, but is depriving yourself of carbs really the healthiest choice? Research led by Dr. Alex Johnson points to long-term low-carb diets being linked to increased mortality rates from various diseases.
In short, living in a constant state of carb deprivation is risky. I don’t know about you, but I’m yearning for some fettuccine right now!
Understanding Carbohydrates
Yes, carbs are often classified as “simple” or “complex,” but the key takeaway is that complex carbs, like sweet potatoes, are nutrient-rich and provide sustained energy. Simple carbs, such as white bread, lack essential nutrients and convert to glucose rapidly.
But that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a slice of cake or indulging in whole-grain rice. You’re an adult, and you have the freedom to make your own choices. If diet culture has been a source of frustration for you, consider tuning into your body’s needs instead of succumbing to restrictive diets.
If you’re currently navigating a keto lifestyle in hopes of quick weight loss, know that I empathize with your struggle. I’ve been there, looking for answers through dieting only to end up in a tumultuous relationship with food. Thankfully, after many years, I embraced my body, and today, I’m proud of my plus-sized form.
This year, I encourage you to embrace the joy of food and break free from the chains of diet culture. Whether it starts with pasta straight from the colander or simply allowing yourself to enjoy what makes you happy, take that leap toward freedom.
For more insights, check out this other blog post on navigating food choices. And if you’re seeking expert guidance, visit ACOG’s resource on health and nutrition.
Summary
Carbohydrates are essential for brain function and overall health. Despite diet culture’s misleading narratives, embracing the joy of carbs can lead to a healthier relationship with food. By recognizing the value of both simple and complex carbs, individuals can prioritize their well-being and enjoy life without restrictive diets.