Carbohydrates, along with proteins and fats, are classified as macronutrients, which are essential for the survival of the human body.

Carbohydrates provide energy to the body, aiding in several bodily functions such as digestion and regulating blood sugar levels. Within the past decade, different studies have indicated that carbohydrates play a vital role in extending life and maintaining optimal health.

What are Carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are a type of organic compound that consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, and are essentially found in foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and dairy products.

They are further categorized into simple and complex carbohydrates, depending on their chemical structure and digestion process.

Simple carbohydrates are relatively smaller molecules that are easily metabolized to produce energy and include sugars found in honey, syrups, table sugar, and fruits. Complex carbohydrates are larger molecules that take longer to break down.

Thus, releasing energy gradually, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels, and provide a slow and steady stream of energy to the body.

Carbohydrates and Life Expectancy

Several studies have indicated that the type and amount of carbohydrates consumed may have a significant impact on life expectancy and overall health.

A study published in the Lancet Public Health analyzed the diets of over 15,000 individuals, focusing on their proportion of macronutrients. The study found that individuals with high intakes of carbohydrates had a lower risk of mortality than those who consumed a low-carbohydrate diet.

Specifically, individuals who consumed additional portions of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains had a lower risk of mortality.

In another study, researchers analyzed data from over 500,000 people from 10 different countries and observed that individuals who consume a diet with high amounts of carbohydrates had a longer life expectancy than those who had low carbohydrate diets. Furthermore, this study suggested a lower risk of heart disease and stroke in those who consume diets rich in carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates and Aging

Research has highlighted that consuming the right type of carbohydrates may impact cellular senescence, and impact the aging process. Cellular senescence is when cells lose their ability to divide or grow, which leads to tissue damage and ageing.

A 2019 study in the Lancet Public Health found that participants who consumed mostly complex carbohydrates with high levels of dietary fibre had fewer signs of cellular senescence. The study concluded that diets rich in complex carbohydrates may lead to healthy ageing by reducing cellular senescence.

Another study conducted on mice showed that cutting down carbohydrates further led to premature ageing and decreased lifespan.

Choosing the Right Type of Carbohydrates

As the research suggests, it is vital to consume the right type of carbohydrates.

Simple carbohydrates, such as table sugar, white bread, and pastries, lead to an immediate spike in blood sugar levels, which drops quickly, leaving the body feeling weak and hungry. Repeatedly spiking blood sugar levels can lead to the development of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, contain dietary fiber, essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote optimal health.

When consumed in moderation they also keep the body feeling full, promote a healthy metabolic function, and regulate blood sugar levels, which can lead to a lower incidence of inflammation and chronic diseases.

Conclusion

The research presented in this article has shown that carbohydrates play an essential role in extending life expectancy by promoting healthy ageing, reducing cellular senescence, and lowering the risks of chronic diseases.

Consuming the right types of carbohydrates, such as complex carbohydrates, high fiber fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can lead to better overall health and a longer, healthier life.