Ah, carbs. The food group everyone loves to hate. From "low-carb" diets to the carbs are evil brigade, it seems like carbs have earned a bad rap. But before you toss that potato into the trash or trade your pasta for a sad lettuce wrap, let’s take a moment to acknowledge something important: carbs are essential and, spoiler alert, they’re your main fuel source. Yup, that’s right. All those plant-based foods? Yep, you guessed it—they’re carbs too.

Carbs: Your Body’s Favorite Fuel

Here’s the thing. Carbs are like that one reliable friend who always brings snacks to the party—always there when you need them, and absolutely essential for getting through the day. Your body loves carbs because it’s the primary source of energy for pretty much everything you do. Whether it’s scrolling through Instagram or running a marathon (or, you know, taking a nap—because we all deserve a little rest), carbs are the fuel that keeps you going.

So, when you hear that carbs make you gain weight, just know it’s not carbs’ fault—it’s all about balance. If you eat carbs in excessive amounts and don’t burn them off, that can lead to fat storage. But when eaten in moderation, carbs help maintain energy levels, keep your brain sharp, and your muscles running smoothly. No need to blame the humble potato when you’re indulging in that second serving of mashed potatoes—it’s all about the quantity.

Plant-Based Foods = Carbs: The Whole Foods Edition

Let’s get one thing straight: all plant-based foods are carbs. Yes, your leafy greens, your tomatoes, your bananas, and even your beloved oats and quinoa are all packed with carbohydrates. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. Carbs are found in all plant-based foods because plants need them to store energy. And when you eat those plants, you’re getting that energy right back.

But wait—before you get concerned that carbs are lurking in every veggie tray and fruit basket, let me reassure you: the carbs in whole, plant-based foods are your friend. Unlike processed carbs (we're looking at you, cake and white bread), these carbs are accompanied by fiber, vitamins, and minerals. In short, they come with a hefty nutritional package. That’s why eating whole plant-based foods—like leafy greens, fruits, beans, and whole grains—gives your body the carbs it craves, without all the empty calories.

The Science Behind Carbs: What’s Really Happening?

Now, let's get into the science. Carbohydrates are made up of sugars, starches, and fibers. When you eat carbs, your body breaks them down into glucose (that’s sugar, but don’t panic—it’s not the bad kind). This glucose is used as energy by your muscles and brain. Your body is super efficient at turning carbs into fuel—so much so that it's actually preferred. While fat and protein can also be used for energy, carbs are a faster and more effective fuel source.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. When you consume complex carbs (the kind you get from whole grains, legumes, and starchy vegetables), your body absorbs the energy slowly and steadily, preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes. This means you stay full, focused, and energized without feeling like you’ve hit a sugar high and subsequent crash. Think of it as having a car that runs smoothly all day, rather than one that sputters out of gas after 10 miles.

The Carb-Free Fantasy: Sorry, Not a Thing

Sure, people love the idea of going carb-free to lose weight, but here’s a little reality check: You can’t function without carbs. You need carbs. In fact, if you cut out carbs completely, your body enters a state of ketosis (which sounds super fancy), where it starts burning fat for fuel. But that’s not always a great thing. It can leave you feeling sluggish, grumpy, and brain-fogged—so much for that “clear-headed” feeling.

And while low-carb diets may work for some in the short-term, they don’t offer the long-lasting benefits of a balanced diet. If you’re eating mostly plants, your carbs come with fiber and micronutrients that are like your body’s personal bodyguard—protecting you from chronic diseases, regulating digestion, and keeping your gut healthy. So, don’t get tricked into thinking carbs are the enemy. They’re just misunderstood superheroes in disguise.

Carbs Are Your Best Friend (And They Won’t Make You Fat)

So, next time someone tells you that carbs will make you gain weight, kindly inform them that all plant-based foods are carbs and they’re actually your body’s preferred fuel source. By eating whole foods like fruits, veggies, grains, and legumes, you’re giving your body the best chance to perform at its peak. Carbs are your friend—just don’t invite too many processed ones to the party. Stick with the whole foods, and you’ll be golden.

Remember, it’s not about eliminating carbs, it’s about choosing the right ones. So go ahead, enjoy your pasta, dig into that sweet potato, and don’t feel bad about the carbs. They’re just here to help. And trust me, your body will thank you for it.

Join me this year and beyond as I share my personal journey of embracing the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges that come with aging. Together, we’ll explore the complexities of growing older and discover the beauty in every step of the process.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of whole person health and aging with vitality? Sign up for my weekly newsletter HERE for expert tips, fun insights, and simple nutrition hacks delivered right to your inbox!