The answer to the question ‘do we need carbohydrates for our body’ is very simple – yes. Carbohydrates are absolutely essential and are a key component to any diet. Energy essentially comes in three forms – carbs, proteins, and fats. Every single one of these is essential to a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle and if you failed to get one of them then certain bodily functions would breakdown.
When you take carbohydrates they will be broken down and then converted into glycogen. This glycogen is the primary source of fuel and energy for your body, both when you are undertaking rigourous activity and also in your day-to-day routine. Glycogen is also very accessible to your body and can easily be assimilated for energy, unlike proteins and fats which take longer to be released.
Carbs actually come in two primary sources – simple and complex. Complex carbohydrates will be found in foods such as potato, bread, rice, and pasta, while simple carbs will be found in fruit, candy, and chocolate. The latter are certainly essential to your bodily functions as well, but you should never rely on them for sustained energy throughout the day.
The times where you might require these simple carbs will be prior to and after exercise. During these times you will need immediate energy and therefore these are most appropriate for that function.
They are also absolutely essential for general growth and well-being as they come coupled with minerals and vitamins that you cannot get elsewhere. For example, fibre is absolutely essential to a healthy diet and this can only be found naturally by eating vegetables, fruits, and pulses.
At the end of the day, therefore, no diet will be fully functioning and healthier without the incorporation of carbs. They are necessary for energy and contain vital minerals and vitamins that you need for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.