Carbohydrates are an essential nutrient that our body needs to function properly. They provide us with the energy we need to make it through the day and help fuel our brain and muscles.

However, many people are afraid of carbs, particularly those who are trying to lose weight. While it’s true that some carbohydrate-dense foods can lead to weight gain if consumed in excess, not getting enough carbs can be detrimental to your health. Here are some signs that you should increase your carbohydrate intake:.

1. You feel lethargic and tired all the time

If you’re always feeling run down and tired, it could be a sign that you’re not eating enough carbohydrates. Carbs provide our body with glucose which is the primary source of energy for our muscles and brain.

Without enough carbs, you’ll feel fatigued and sluggish, even if you’re getting enough rest.

2. You’re not able to maintain your weight

If you’re constantly losing weight despite not trying to, it could be due to low carbohydrate intake.

Our body needs a certain amount of calories to function properly, and if you’re not getting enough carbs, your body will start to break down muscle tissue to get the glucose it needs. This can lead to weight loss, even if you’re eating enough calories.

3. Your workouts are suffering

If you’re active and enjoy working out, you’ll need to eat enough carbs to fuel your exercise routine. Carbs provide the energy you need to power through a tough workout, and without enough of them, your performance will suffer.

You may notice that you’re not able to lift as much weight or run as far as you used to.

4. You’re always hungry

If you’re constantly craving food and never feel full, it could be a sign that you’re not eating enough carbs. Carbs help keep us feeling full and satisfied, and without them, you’ll be prone to overeating and snacking throughout the day.

5. You’re not getting enough fiber

Many carbohydrate-rich foods are also high in fiber, which is an essential nutrient that helps regulate digestion and keeps us feeling full.

If you’re not eating enough carbs, you may not be getting enough fiber, which can lead to digestive issues and feelings of hunger and bloating.

6. You’re irritable and moody

Low carb diets have been shown to negatively impact our mood, with some studies linking low carb intake to increased anxiety and depression.

Carbs are an important source of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and can influence our feelings of happiness and well-being.

7. Your immune system is weak

Carbohydrates play an important role in our immune system, helping our body produce the antibodies needed to fight off infection and disease. Not getting enough carbs can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to illness and infection.

8. You’re experiencing hormonal imbalances

Carbs also play a role in hormone regulation, particularly insulin which helps control our blood sugar levels. Not getting enough carbs can lead to hormonal imbalances, which can impact our menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health.

9. You’re having trouble sleeping

Our body needs carbs to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate sleep. Low-carb diets have been shown to negatively impact sleep quality, causing people to have trouble falling asleep or waking up frequently throughout the night.

10. You’re getting sick more often

As mentioned earlier, carbs play an important role in immune function. If you’re getting sick more often than usual, it could be a sign that you’re not getting enough carbs to support your immune system.

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s important to consider increasing your carbohydrate intake.

Carbs are an essential nutrient that our body needs to function properly, and not getting enough of them can lead to a host of health issues. However, it’s important to remember that not all carbs are created equal. Choose complex carbs such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes which will provide a slow and steady release of energy throughout the day.