When people think of losing weight there are now more and more people insisting low carb is the way.
But is it?
Let me explain:
Carbs affect our blood sugar more than fat or protein, meaning when we eat them they spike. We then release insulin to regulate the sugar in our blood.
This fluctuation in blood sugar leaves us feeling hungry and hence we may eat more.
Carbs are not as calorie dense per gram as fat (carbs 4 cals per gram, fat 9 cals) but it is easier to eat more of them.
They simply do not fill us up as much as fat and protein sources.
Combine this with various hormonal interactions which take place and carbs can be seen as the devil.
However……
You are an athlete!
Carbs are a great source of fuel when you are pushing your body to the extreme.
They help fuel intense sessions but also assist with recovery.
Without them then you may not recover as effectively and are likely not going to be able to push as hard in your intervals/effort/strength sessions.
The upshot of this is that you won’t burn as many calories, which will have a negative effect on fat loss.
So what to do?
Use carbs at the right time.
Have the right type.
Have as many as your genetics can handle.
There are times we don’t need them and times we do.
There are times we need a certain type and times we need another.
There are times for gels and sports drinks – not nearly as often as most triathletes use them though.
This is something I go in to more detail in by E-book – The Triathlete Nutrition Code:
It explains the macro nutrient ratio required for your body type.
What carbs to eat when.
How many etc etc.
It also has recipes in, which help you to incorporate them optimally.
In turn, you get faster and leaner.
BOOM!
Best of all its only £9.99/$12 ish:
Jamie “Sweet” Leighton