Who needs carbohydrates?
We all do! Carbohydrates are an excellent source of energy for all our cells. Fats and even proteins can also be used for energy; however, our red blood cells, brain cells and other nervous tissue rely primarily on carbohydrates. This explains why people feel tired, irritable and even shaky when they miss a meal or go for a prolonged period of time without eating2. How much? According to Health Canada, carbohydrates should account for approximately 55 per cent of our total daily calories6. The range of carbohydrate consumption associated with a decreased risk of chronic disease is 45 per cent (older and less active adults) to 65 per cent (active adults)2. For example, if a person normally consumes 2,000 total calories per day, carbohydrates should represent roughly 1,100 calories or 300 grams (four calories of energy per gram). In terms of daily servings, the guidelines suggest six to eight servings of grain products and seven to 10 servings of vegetables and fruit each to day to ensur
