For years, carbs have taken the blame for everything from weight gain to fatigue.
But the science - and common sense - tells a different story.
Our athletes rely on carbs for endurance, strength, and recovery.
And whether you're at the top of your sport or brand-new to exercise, you need to fuel your performance.
So here's why it’s time to stop fearing carbs and start understanding them.
MYTH: CARBS MAKE YOU FAT
The truth is that excess calories and poor food quality do - not carbs
Weight gain happens when you eat more calories than you burn, regardless of whether they come from carbs, fat, or protein.
Whole-food carbs like sweet potatoes, oats, lentils, and fruit are nutrient powerhouses - not fat traps.
YOUR BRAIN RUNS ON CARBS
The brain needs about 120 grams of glucose per day - its preferred energy source.
When you don’t eat enough carbs, your body breaks down protein (muscle) to make glucose.
NOT ALL CARBS ARE CREATED EQUAL
There’s a big difference between:Refined carbs like white bread, soda, and pastries - which are stripped of nutrients and fibre.
Complex carbs like brown rice, legumes, quinoa, and vegetables - which are loaded with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants.
SOME OF THE HEALTHIEST DIETS ARE HIGH IN CARBS
The Mediterranean Diet (often ranked No 1 for health) includes pasta, grains, and legumes.
Okinawans in Japan - among the longest-living people on Earth - get more than 70 per cent of their calories from sweet potatoes.
WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY
“The issue is not carbs, it’s the quality of the food.” - Dr. David Katz (Yale Prevention Research Centre)
“The healthiest diets are high in good carbohydrates - vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.” - Dr. Walter Willett (Harvard)
“Carbs are your body’s main source of energy - you need them to function at your best.” - registered dietitian Abbey Sharp
THE BOTTOM LINE?
Carbs aren’t bad. Misinformation is.
So don't fear carbs; choose smart ones.
Your body, your brain, and your long-term health will thank you.
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