What Happens When We Overeat Carbohydrates?
Author: Marko Balašević
Time for reading: ~2
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)
In this article, learn more about What Happens When We Overeat Carbohydrates?. Excessive carbohydrate intake explains a number of daily ailments..
Carbohydrates are the main and fastest absorbing source of energy for our body. Healthy eating requires between 45% and 65% of the calories we eat to be obtained through them. However, with excessive carbohydrate intake, the balance of a number of life processes is disturbed.
In addition to being at the root of a number of ailments that we complain of on a daily basis, regular carbohydrate overeating also increases the risk of some serious diseases.
Depending on our physical and mental activity, we expend a different amount of calories every day. When we consume more carbohydrates than we need to maintain our energy reserves, the body transforms unused carbohydrates into lipids and directs them to storage in fat depots for use as needed.
However, this does not mean that obesity is the only negative effect of excessive carbohydrate intake. There are a number of other consequences that can impair the functioning of many systems in the body.
Rapid but short-lived rise in blood sugar
Simple and fast-digesting carbohydrates in confectionery, snacks and even fruit provoke a very rapid rise in blood sugar in just minutes after ingestion. This leads to a rapid influx of energy, which, however, is depleted very quickly and can lead to hypoglycemia . Thus, if we regularly rely only on sources of fast carbohydrates, there are complaints such as chronic fatigue, fatigue, dizziness, problems with concentration.
Deterioration of the intestinal tract
Simple sugars are also used as a primary food source by bacteria that naturally inhabit the intestines. This includes both beneficial bacteria in the intestinal flora and other potentially pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Stimulating their growth and reproduction in case of excessive carbohydrate intake is the cause of discomfort and bloating of the stomach, increased formation of gas in the intestines and others. complaints.
In the long run, digestive problems such as chronic constipation, upset stomach, enzyme deficiency and others may occur .
Neurological disorders
Many studies have shown that simple carbohydrates have an addictive effect and can be addictive if taken regularly. Cases of the so-called sugar abstinence, in which not getting the amount of carbohydrates to which the body is accustomed, can trigger neurological disorders such as irritability, anxiety, depression , etc.
The appearance of any of these complaints can always be seen as a signal that the body needs a more varied and balanced diet . Temporary adherence to a low-carbohydrate diet is a good solution when you need to restore the energy and emotional balance of the body or the activity of the gastrointestinal tract.