Is an Abundance of Carbohydrates Bad?

Do you know the reasons why you should control your consumption of carbohydrates? Carbohydrates are an important group of nutrients, however, their abundance can be as harmful as their deficiency.
Is an Abundance of Carbohydrates Bad?

Last update: 03 June, 2019

In order for the body to function properly and in a healthy manner, it’s important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits and to exercise regularly. When it comes to food, you have to consume a wide variety of nutrients. It’s important to know what happens to your body when there’s an abundance of carbohydrates in your diet.

Read along to see how the consequences of abusing this important nutrient can affect you. We’ll also share the recommended amount of carbohydrates to include in your diet.

Possible consequences of an abundance of carbohydrates

Greater likelihood of obesity

One of the most visible negative effects of excess carbohydrates is obesity. This occurs because the body usually uses carbohydrates as an energy source. If we consume too many, the energy will be stored rather than used.

As a consequence, an abundance of carbohydrates can lead to a progressive increase in fat deposits. This can lead to weight gain and obesity.

Keep in mind that obesity is not just about having more fat than necessary, it can also lead to various health problems. Obesity can lead to the development of diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Healthy carbohydrates

The appearance of cavities and increased likelihood of diabetes: an abundance of carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are made up of sugars. This can be natural or by adding sugar during the manufacturing process. Consuming an abundance of carbohydrates also means you are consuming an abundance of sugar.

Excess sugar is one of the main causes of tooth decay and poor oral hygiene. Excess carbohydrates can also increase the likelihood of diseases such as diabetes. That’s why it’s so important to consume carbs moderately.

Cardiovascular diseases

High consumption of carbohydrates can also lead to the appearance of cardiovascular diseases. As we previously mentioned, carbohydrates that the body does not utilize turns into fat.

This excess in lipids can cause the heart to have greater difficulty pumping blood to the organs. Fat can also cover the inside of arteries making it harder for blood to circulate adequately. As a consequence, strokes or heart attacks may occur.

What’s the right amount of carbohydrates?

Now you know the consequences of ingesting too many carbohydrates, you now know the importance of eating the right amount. Moderation is important in order to prevent all of the consequences mentioned above.

Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy for the body. Carbohydrates should make up about 40 percent of the calories that you ingest daily. The consumption of carbs should also be spread out throughout the day.

A good option is to accompany your food with a snack or a piece of bread. You can also ingest carbohydrates that are rich in fiber which provides energy and improves intestinal transit.

Woman eating pasta

Conclusion

Carbohydrates are important nutrients. As with all nutrients, you have to ingest them in the right quantities and qualities.

Try to consume the correct amount of carbohydrates. A deficit of carbohydrates can cause problems such as fatigue and weakness.

An abundance of carbohydrates, on the other hand, can produce an accumulation of fat, leading to weight gain and obesity. In addition, it also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Now you know the necessary information, you can change your diet in order to incorporate the right amount of carbohydrates. Your body will thank you for it!


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This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.