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A must-read for Hong Kongers: Do we really need carbohydrates?

In the world of weight loss and healthy eating, "carbohydrates" have always been a controversial topic. Do we really need carbohydrates? American health expert Dr. Eric Berg shares his views in his video, which are worth considering for Hong Kong readers.

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🍚 🧠 Do our bodies really need carbohydrates?

Dr. Berg points out that while many people believe carbohydrates are the body's primary energy source, we can also function using fats and proteins. This breaks the myth that "carbohydrates = energy." He emphasizes that carbohydrates are not indispensable, especially for those trying to lose weight; excessive intake can actually be an obstacle.

🍬 Types of carbohydrates: simple vs. complex

Simple carbohydrates , such as sugar, honey, and fructose, are absorbed quickly but can easily cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Complex carbohydrates , such as vegetables and legumes, contain fiber, which can stabilize blood sugar and promote gut health.

Dr. Berg emphasized that while vegetables contain carbohydrates, more importantly, they provide abundant vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which help the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

🥦 Vegetables, beans, and fruits: How much should we eat?

Vegetables : You can eat as many as you like; the key is nutrition, not carbohydrates.
Legumes : Although they have a slow glycemic index, they are high in carbohydrates, which is not good for people with slow metabolisms.
Fruits : While healthy, they are high in sugar, which can hinder weight loss. Apples, in particular, contain up to 30 grams of sugar per fruit!

🍞 Grains and starches: Are they worth avoiding?

Dr. Berg does not recommend grains for two reasons:

It has a low nutrient density, far less than vegetables.
It contains gluten, which may cause intestinal discomfort, bloating and other problems.

As for starchy foods such as potatoes and white rice, he believes they are helpful for people who engage in high-intensity exercise or need to gain weight, but the average person should eat them with caution.

🧾 In conclusion: Carbs are not the enemy, but you need to choose them wisely.

For Hong Kong people, rice, bread, and desserts are part of their daily diet, but if you are trying to lose weight or improve your health, you might want to re-examine your carbohydrate intake. As Dr. Berg said, "We need carbohydrates, but we need even more the nutrients and fiber that come with them."

You don't have to completely eliminate carbohydrates, but you can choose smarter ways to consume them. After all, health is about balance, not extremes.