Tag: dementia

With many recent health trends, carbohydrates have been demonized as bad for health. But let’s remember that carbohydrates are neither “good” nor “bad”, simply that there are different types that have different functions. Matching those functions to our nutritional and physical needs is what’s important, rather than cutting out carbohydrates completely.

Generally speaking, simple carbohydrates (such as castor sugar and white flour) are quite easy to break down and consequently do not provide long-term energy. However, because they are easy to break down, people who lead very active lifestyles can benefit from the quick bursts of energy. Complex carbohydrates, on the other hand, are more difficult to break down and consequently provide longer-lasting energy. Most people who work long hours or who eat less frequently benefit from the slower-release aspect of complex carbohydrates.

The brain, due to its many functions, requires a wide range of energy sources. As far as carbohydrates are concerned, although the brain could benefit from simple carbohydrates, the constant presence of simple carbohydrates will harm the rest of the body (Type II diabetes, anyone?). Complex carbohydrates are the safer type for the brain, thanks to its slow-release factor and lower risk factor to the rest of the body.

Some “good” carbohydrates for the brain are: white rice, potatoes, bananas, legumes, and pasta (made from durum wheat).