I was told that I needed carbs to preserve my muscle while trying to lose fat, and was told to consume atleast 200gs a day. Is this true?
2006-08-27 11:20:58 · 17 answers · asked by stevendaox 1 in Health ➔ Diet & Fitness
Ah I'm getting two differrent answers..
2006-08-27 11:28:16 · update #1
Yes.
Protein is more essential.
2006-08-27 11:23:04 · answer #1 · answered by Man 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As others have mentioned, you need protein to preserve muscles. But you also need carbs in the sense that if you do not take any carbs, your body will catabolise muscles/protein for energy instead. Over the long term, you will go into a state of ketosis which is not healthy. Moreover, your brain function is fueled by glycogen (blood sugar). Without sufficient carbs, your brain function will be affected.
1 gm of carb = 4 calories
1 gm of protein = 4 calories
1 gm of fat = 9 calories
Since you are trying to lose fat, I assume you are doing some form of cardio exercise. You will therefore need carbs for energy. My suggestion is that on days that you do weight training, you can afford to eat more carbs for muscle growth and recovery. On days when you do cardio, eat a little less carbs. This strategy seems to work for me.
2006-08-27 16:53:19 · answer #2 · answered by Loki 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No they're not. Protein is what determines muscle mass and I don't think you need nearly 200 grams of that... probably a tenth would be adequate. You could have around 1500 calories of combined fat, carbs, and sugar and still lose weight. Carbs are one of your worst enemies when trying to lose weight because they add up so fast. You need some protein, a few carbs, very little fat and sugar. Sorry, I don't know what the grams of carbs to calories conversion is, but there's lots of info here: http://www.chetday.com
When you get conflicting answers, it's time to do research on your own. (like I did)
2006-08-27 11:28:31 · answer #3 · answered by Mr. Peachy® 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Carbs have nothing to do with muscle gain. PROTEIN is what you need to gain and preserve your muscles. If you wanna lose fat stay on low carbs and do not have carbs more than 3 times a day. Good luck!
2006-08-27 11:25:35 · answer #4 · answered by curious_boricua_soul 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm not sure about what it has to do with muscle. However I do know that you do need carbs, carbs turn to sugar and give you long lasting energy. Without them you would hardly be able to function. They are a necessity of life. Make sure you have them.
2006-08-27 11:23:59 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Carbs are converted to sugar immediately, and we have all been told that a low carb, high protein diet is the best way to lose weight. I would be skeptical of this information.
2006-08-27 11:23:48 · answer #6 · answered by leadfoot126 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, the body uses carbs (carbohydrates) for energy. if the body has an insufficient amount of carbs it starts breaking down its self to get the energy it needs. If this happens the first thing to be broken down is muscle because it is much easier and faster to break down than fat for quick energy.
2006-08-27 11:26:19 · answer #7 · answered by Adamedic 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes and no, carbs are essential to sustained energy...caloric intake control and sustained exercise are the keys to successful weight loss. Your specific needs per day will vary as will your daily output. Good luck.
2006-08-27 11:32:39 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Decrease carbs and your body will burn fat before protein
2006-08-27 11:23:11 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Carbs are what fuels the body, but moderation is the key. Too much of anything is not good for you.
2006-08-27 11:24:15 · answer #10 · answered by Miss U 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋