{"id":20597,"date":"2021-04-05T16:25:09","date_gmt":"2021-04-05T16:25:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/?p=20597"},"modified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T08:35:01","slug":"best-time-to-eat-carbs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_75 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Why_Do_Carbs_Have_A_Bad_Reputation\" >Why Do Carbs Have A Bad Reputation?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Types_Of_Carbohydrates\" >Types Of Carbohydrates<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#When_Is_The_Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\" >When Is The Best Time To Eat Carbs?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs_For_Weight_Loss\" >Best Time To Eat Carbs For Weight Loss<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Time\" >Time<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Glycemic_Index_GI\" >Glycemic Index (GI)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs_For_Muscle_Growth\" >Best Time To Eat Carbs For Muscle Growth<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#The_Truth_About_Carbs_Before_Bed\" >The Truth About Carbs Before Bed<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Eating_Carbs_As_Part_Of_A_Balanced_Diet\" >Eating Carbs As Part Of A Balanced Diet<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Simple_Vs_Complex\" >Simple Vs. Complex<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#Get_your_personalized\" >Get your personalized<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#DISCLAIMER\" >DISCLAIMER:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#SOURCES\" >SOURCES:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nutrient timing is all about eating certain foods at specified times of the day to achieve weight loss, muscle gain, or improved performance. In this article, we shall focus on carbs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\" target=\"_blank\"><video autoplay=\"autoplay\" loop=\"loop\" muted=\"muted\" playsinline=\"playsinline\" width=\"777\"><source src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/ezgif.com-gif-to-mp4-2.mp4\" type=\"video\/mp4\" \/><\/video><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When is the best time to eat carbs when you&#8217;re looking to lose weight? What about muscle growth? For performance? Is it okay to eat carbs before bed? Follow us into the discussion as we answer all these questions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Do_Carbs_Have_A_Bad_Reputation\"><\/span><b>Why Do Carbs Have A Bad Reputation?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrates have had a bad reputation for a long time as people believe they&#8217;re the leading cause for <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/alcohol-weight-gain\/\">weight gain<\/a>, among other side effects. Well, let&#8217;s debunk that myth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrates are one of the essential macronutrients the body needs alongside fats and protein. Furthermore, carbs provide the most significant body fuel source as it is converted to glucose\/sugar, then from sugar to energy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_Of_Carbohydrates\"><\/span><b>Types Of Carbohydrates<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All carbs turn to glucose then energy, a process called gluconeogenesis. However, there are two distinct types of dietary carbs that have different effects on the body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459280\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Simple\/refined carbohydrates. These carbs only have one or two sugar molecules, hence quickly absorbed into the body. These carbs include fruit juice, honey, white flour, and milk.<\/li>\n<li>Complex carbohydrates. These carbs have more sugar molecules than the former but are healthier and have more nutrients and fibers. They include oats, brown rice, beans and sweet potatoes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Both types of carbs are necessary for the body, but they play different roles in different scenarios. For example, simple carbs are better before a workout as they create energy faster in the body than complex carbs. However, complex carbs are best if you want to feel full for longer.<\/p>\n<p>In summary, carbohydrates are essential in your diet; otherwise, you risk your body seeking alternative body fuel such as fat or protein, which aren&#8217;t effective energy sources. Fats are ineffective as they lead to the production of ketone bodies which are acidic and may be harmful to your body in the long run.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protein as a source of energy will significantly reduce your muscle mass and affect the building of other body cells. The best carbs you should take include whole fruits and vegetables, whole grain carbs, and unrefined sugars.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/snacks-with-no-carbs\/\">Snacks With No Carbs: The Ultimate Zero-Carb Food List To Keep You In Ketosis<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32175 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4504-1024x576.png\" alt=\"carbs\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4504.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4504-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4504.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4504.png 1152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Is_The_Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\"><\/span><b>When Is The Best Time To Eat Carbs?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfortunately, there&#8217;s no straight answer to this as there is no right time to consume carbs. What&#8217;s vital is what type of carbohydrates you take and how much you&#8217;re consuming. Nutrient timing may come in handy for athletes and other sportspeople but, what matters is the quality and portions of carbs you eat; that&#8217;s what will affect your performance, health, and body composition.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you focus on nutrient timing, pay keen attention to these elements:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100% whole grain products<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid excessive added <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/no-sugar-diet-food-list\/\">sugar<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These elements aligned with your goals and activity levels will ensure you gain the right micronutrients, macronutrients, and supplementation you need to achieve your desired outcomes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nonetheless, some of you may be looking for a way to add some edge to your nutrient timing routine to achieve weight loss or muscle gain. Let&#8217;s look at the best time to eat carbs to lose weight and the best time to eat carbs for muscle growth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32177 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4509-1024x576.png\" alt=\"BetterMe\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4509.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4509-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4509.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Frame-4509.png 1344w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs_For_Weight_Loss\"><\/span><b>Best Time To Eat Carbs For Weight Loss<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With weight management or weight loss, several factors come into play:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Time<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glycemic indexes from the carbs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Time\"><\/span><b>Time<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even though there are inconsistencies, studies show that when you consume carbs can affect how it&#8217;s absorbed in the body. A particular study showed that eating targeted carbs for one meal, say dinner, rather than in every meal of the day, can affect weight, leading to weight loss and feeling fuller (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/21475137\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another study showed your body is better at burning carbs if consumed in the morning rather than in the evening. The studies align with other studies that suggest that weight gain tends to occur with eating more calories later in the day, so larger, carb-rich meals in the evening may hinder fat loss (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25250617\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Due to these inconsistencies, many experts say that when you eat carbs, it isn&#8217;t as important as what carbs you take and how you expend the energy from the carbohydrates. To achieve weight loss, reduce your total calorie intake to achieve a caloric deficit. That plus exercise will help you lose weight.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Looking for a way to <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\">break the vicious cycle of weight loss<\/a> and tone up all the jiggly parts? Watch the extra pounds fly off and your muscles firm up with the BetterMe app!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32606 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"carbs\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-1-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-1.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Glycemic_Index_GI\"><\/span><strong>Glycemic Index (GI)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Carbs can have a high, medium, or low GI. The glycemic index is measured on a scale that goes from 0 to 100. The higher it is, the more carbohydrates contained in the food that we have eaten pass into the blood. Studies show that carbs with low GI, such as kidney beans, green vegetables, and carrots, are much better for weight management and weight loss than high GI carbs such as white bread and potatoes.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moreover, your glycemic index can affect your blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity, affecting weight loss and risk of diabetes. Studies show that the best time to eat complex carbs or any carbs would be in the morning as it improves glycemic control and insulin sensitivity, leading to regulated body hormones and better body composition.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All in all, carbs are vital in your diet as they provide essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients. Aim for high-quality carbs that nourish and provide all the nutrients in your body.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32614 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"carbs\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-1-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-1.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs_For_Muscle_Growth\"><\/span><b>Best Time To Eat Carbs For Muscle Growth<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We have established that carbs are macronutrients essential in your diet.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, there isn&#8217;t conclusive evidence to prove how they can help with bodybuilding. Studies show that taking carbs and proteins post-workout helps with increased protein synthesis, helping with muscle hypertrophy (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/11507179\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the other hand, some studies reveal that only protein is essential for protein synthesis regardless of whether you consume carbs or not (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/21131864\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some best time to eat carbs bodybuilding tips:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take plenty of refined carbs pre-workout to ensure your body has enough source of fuel for training, especially if you&#8217;re into strength, endurance, or <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/resistance-training-for-weight-loss\/\">resistance training<\/a>. The carbs will also aid with improving your performance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take equal amounts of proteins and carbohydrates post-workout so that the body can convert them into glycogen stores for energy, and protein works on synthesis for building muscles.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take complex carbs after workout as the body will digest them much slower, resulting in the slow breakdown of protein, which aids with <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/3-day-split-workout\/\">muscle growth<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrates have no direct effect on building muscles. However, you have to ensure the energy in your body is enough for other activities such as protein digestion and synthesis, which will lead to the building of muscles and recovery.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bottom line is that your total carbs for the day should be able to support your energy expenditure, especially when the workout is involved to avoid loss of muscle protein for energy. Nonetheless, carbohydrate nutrient timing isn&#8217;t as crucial with ordinary people as energy expense isn&#8217;t much.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Read More:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/how-to-break-a-weight-loss-plateau\/\">How To Break A Weight Loss Plateau?<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-32617 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"carbs\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-1-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-1.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Truth_About_Carbs_Before_Bed\"><\/span><b>The Truth About Carbs Before Bed<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eating carbs before bed is an exciting topic as there are many theories involved. While some claim it&#8217;s healthy and allows you to sleep better, others say it often leads to weight gain. Let&#8217;s find out the truth.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrates taken before bed can positively affect your sleep by increasing tryptophan production, a serotonin precursor that promotes sleep. It also reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, allowing you to feel relaxed and inducing better sleep<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Complex carbs also contain magnesium, which can reduce anxiety, so eating them at night can help you sleep better.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the other end, carbohydrates don&#8217;t necessarily have to cause weight gain as it all depends on the type and amount of carbs you&#8217;re consuming. If it&#8217;s more than your body burns throughout the day, you may experience weight gain as your body is in a calorie surplus.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, it&#8217;s not harmful to take carbs at night because the body will still use carbohydrates&#8217; energy. Your body will use this fuel during rest as you sleep, an expenditure called resting energy expenditure (REE) (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/10099943\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Therefore, eating complex carbs or protein before bed is okay and leaves you feeling full till morning.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you take carbs shouldn&#8217;t matter as they&#8217;re the body&#8217;s primary source of energy. So long as it aligns with your activity level and your health and fitness goals, taking carbs at night is healthy and safe.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>If you tend to let yourself off the hook, raise the white flag when things get tougher than you expected, send yourself on an unconscious binge-eating trip \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\">BetterMe app is here to help you<\/a> leave all of these sabotaging habits in the past!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-34506 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/6-4-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"carbs\" width=\"770\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/6-4.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/6-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/6-4.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/6-4-1636x920.jpg 1636w, https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/6-4.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 770px) 100vw, 770px\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eating_Carbs_As_Part_Of_A_Balanced_Diet\"><\/span><b>Eating Carbs As Part Of A Balanced Diet<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrates can be in two types, simple and complex. Also, carbs can be in the form of starches, fibers, and sugars. These two types of distinctions are what determines a good carbohydrate from a bad carbohydrate.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Simple_Vs_Complex\"><\/span><b>Simple Vs. Complex<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simple carbs are easy to digest sugars, quickly absorbed through the gut, and significantly affect your blood sugar levels. These simple sugars can either be in fruits or refined types such as those on baked goods made, soda, syrup, and candy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Complex carbohydrates are in whole grains, legumes, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables. They have more sugar molecules, therefore, take longer to be absorbed. These complex carbs will leave you feeling full for longer, not because of how long they take to be absorbed but because of their fiber content.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complex carbs are better to include in your meals because they have fiber prebiotic and feed good bacteria. Still, it also allows for the absorption of the carbohydrate to be slower into the bloodstream. Hence, it won&#8217;t spike glucose levels and insulin levels like refined carbohydrates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Complex carbs offer more consistent energy than simple carbs; therefore, even though simple carbs provide faster power, they won&#8217;t last as long as complex carbohydrates. Complex carbs are also high in vitamin B9 and Potassium. Lastly, complex carbs usually have a low glycemic index that doesn&#8217;t negatively affect your blood sugar.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That said, simple carbs are not entirely bad for your health. If you wish to include a simple carb in your diet, go for exclusive products such as whole fruits rather than processed cookies or sweets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These will be more nutritious as they contain fiber, <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/first-signs-of-losing-weight\/\">antioxidants<\/a>, and polyphenols. Dairy too is best because of calcium, protein, and probiotics from yogurt. The idea is to avoid excess added sugars and sweetened drinks and foods which only boost energy at the moment and don&#8217;t contain any nutritional value for your body.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Including carbohydrates in your meal depends on numerous factors, including your activity levels. If it&#8217;s pre or post-workout, you could take half a portion of carbs, leaving protein and fats to each take a quarter. For weight loss, take a small percentage of complex carbs in the morning to sustain your activities of the day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, the idea of a <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/balanced-diet\/\">balanced diet<\/a> should remain equal portions of the three macronutrients; carbs, proteins, and fats.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Timing your carbohydrate consumption shouldn\u2019t be a priority as there is no evidence showing how it could have consequences on your health and lifestyle. Carbohydrates have always been and will always be essential to a balanced diet, regardless of at what time you\u2019ve eaten them.<\/p>\n<p>Eating a balanced diet and sticking with your fitness goals, whether it&#8217;s bodybuilding or losing weight, is vital to your health. These should be the basis of any <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/benefits-of-eating-slowly\/\">diet<\/a> you follow.<\/p>\n\n    <section class=\"ad-single-wrapper\">\n        <div class=\"ad-single-text ad-title-wrapper\">\n            <h3 class=\"ad-single-title\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_your_personalized\"><\/span>Get your personalized<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n            <span class=\"ad-single-sub-title color-green\">\n                <svg class=\"icon-sparkle\" width=\"36\" height=\"21\" viewBox=\"0 0 36 21\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\n                          d=\"M34.6837 0.515943C34.8247 0.835947 34.9421 1.16291 34.9891 1.48987C35.1417 2.64466 35.3179 6.51949 35.2592 7.29863C35.2592 7.53515 35.1887 7.7995 35.0243 8.01516C34.7307 8.39777 33.9791 8.4256 33.5681 8.07081C33.4154 7.94559 33.3215 7.77863 33.2745 7.61863C33.1453 7.15254 33.0396 6.68645 32.9809 6.22035C32.8165 4.81512 32.6638 3.40293 32.5581 1.9977C32.5229 1.53161 32.6051 1.05856 32.6991 0.592466C32.7695 0.244637 33.251 -0.0197144 33.6973 0.00115537C34.2257 0.0289818 34.5546 0.230723 34.6837 0.515943ZM18.6184 9.78225C18.5734 9.67557 18.5344 9.57528 18.4971 9.47956C18.4178 9.27568 18.3465 9.09257 18.2426 8.91267C16.7159 6.24133 14.2615 3.86217 11.4665 1.60128C11.1377 1.33693 10.7267 1.08649 10.2687 0.919531C10.0221 0.829095 9.52885 0.843009 9.247 0.933445C9.03562 1.00301 8.88295 1.27432 8.92992 1.42736C9.01213 1.71954 9.18828 2.01868 9.4349 2.28303C11.0555 4.02913 12.6879 5.76829 14.3437 7.50048C14.8308 8.0068 15.3395 8.50887 15.8473 9.01L15.8473 9.01001C15.9883 9.14921 16.1293 9.28833 16.2697 9.42746C16.4811 9.64311 16.7159 9.85181 16.9626 10.0466C17.2327 10.2692 17.6437 10.4014 18.0547 10.2553C18.0691 10.2501 18.0836 10.245 18.0981 10.2399C18.1097 10.2358 18.1213 10.2318 18.1329 10.2278C18.3785 10.1424 18.6184 10.0589 18.6184 9.78225ZM1.98942 20.1407C2.17783 20.1221 2.37674 20.105 2.58175 20.0875C2.99012 20.0525 3.42272 20.0154 3.84492 19.9598C6.34632 19.6259 8.84771 19.292 11.3374 18.9442C11.8776 18.8676 12.406 18.7355 12.8875 18.5824C13.5334 18.3807 13.7566 18.0954 13.6509 17.7824C13.5452 17.4694 13.1224 17.2746 12.3826 17.2676C11.8776 17.2607 11.3374 17.2676 10.8559 17.3372C7.69683 17.8102 4.5378 18.2972 1.3905 18.7911C1.03819 18.8468 0.674137 18.9442 0.404034 19.0833C-0.2771 19.4242 -0.065712 19.9598 0.803314 20.092C1.01858 20.1228 1.25262 20.1258 1.51135 20.1291C1.66195 20.131 1.82092 20.133 1.98942 20.1407Z\"\n                          fill=\"#17B991\"\/>\n                <\/svg>\n               meal plan!\n            <\/span>\n        <\/div>\n    \n        <div class=\"ad-single-text ad-desc-wrapper\">\n            <p class=\"ad-single-desc\">What's your main health goal?<\/p>\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\">Lose weight<\/a>\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/quiz.betterme.world\/first-page-generated?flow=2228&amp;utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Best_Time_To_Eat_Carbs\" class=\"btn-ad btn-green\">Feel great<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        <img class=\"ad-single-img\" alt=\"health-food\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"395\" height=\"383\" src=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/themes\/gridlove-child\/assets\/img\/ad\/health-food.webp\">\n    <\/section>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DISCLAIMER\"><\/span><b>DISCLAIMER:<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SOURCES\"><\/span>SOURCES:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/21131864\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrate does not augment exercise-induced protein accretion versus protein alone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2011, pubmed.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25250617\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consuming more daily caloric intake at dinner predisposes to obesity<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2014, pubmed.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/23389113\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eating carbohydrate mostly at lunch and protein mostly at dinner within a covert hypocaloric diet influences morning glucose homeostasis in overweight\/obese men<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2014, pubmed.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/21475137\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Greater weight loss and hormonal changes after 6 months diet with carbohydrates eaten mostly at dinner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2011, pubmed.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/27078151\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intake of Protein Plus Carbohydrate during the First Two Hours after Exhaustive Cycling Improves Performance the following Day<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2016, pubmed.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459280\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physiology, carbohydrates<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (2020, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/10099943\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relationship between overnight energy expenditure and BMR measured in a room-sized calorimeter<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (1999, pubmed.nih.gov)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/11507179\/\">Timing of post-exercise protein intake is important for muscle hypertrophy with resistance training in elderly humans<\/a> (2001, pubmed.nih.gov)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Nutrient timing is all about eating certain foods at specified times of the day to achieve weight loss, muscle gain, or improved performance. In this article, we shall focus on carbs. When is the best time to eat carbs when you&#8217;re looking to lose weight? What about muscle growth? For performance? Is it okay to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":20600,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"coauthors":[117],"class_list":["post-20597","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nutrition"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v20.2.1 (Yoast SEO v25.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing - BetterMe<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What is the \u2605 BEST TIME TO EAT CARBS? \u27a4 Find out whether nutrient timing matters when you are trying to lose weight or build muscle. Here\u2019s what science says.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What is the \u2605 BEST TIME TO EAT CARBS? \u27a4 Find out whether nutrient timing matters when you are trying to lose weight or build muscle. Here\u2019s what science says.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BetterMe Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"#\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/shutterstock_525727822.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"667\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"ZindzyGracia\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@betterme\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"ZindzyGracia\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"BetterMe\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/58ffa041e840240fb24019691a681c53\"},\"headline\":\"Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/\"},\"wordCount\":2240,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/shutterstock_525727822.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Nutrition\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"articleBody\":\"<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Nutrient timing is all about eating certain foods at specified times of the day to achieve weight loss, muscle gain, or improved performance. In this article, we shall focus on carbs.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\"><\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">When is the best time to eat carbs when you're looking to lose weight? What about muscle growth? For performance? Is it okay to eat carbs before bed? Follow us into the discussion as we answer all these questions.<\/span>\\r\\n<h2 style=\\\"text-align: center;\\\"><b>Why Do Carbs Have A Bad Reputation?<\/b><\/h2>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Carbohydrates have had a bad reputation for a long time as people believe they're the leading cause for <a href=\\\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/alcohol-weight-gain\/\\\">weight gain<\/a>, among other side effects. Well, let's debunk that myth.<\/span>\\r\\n\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">Carbohydrates are one of the essential macronutrients the body needs alongside fats and protein. Furthermore, carbs provide the most significant body fuel source as it is converted to glucose\/sugar, then from sugar to energy.<\/span>\\r\\n<h3><b>Types Of Carbohydrates<\/b><\/h3>\\r\\n<span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">All carbs turn to glucose then energy, a process called gluconeogenesis. However, there are two distinct types of dietary carbs that have different effects on the body (<\/span><a href=\\\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459280\/\\\"><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\\\"font-weight: 400;\\\">).<\/span>\\r\\n<ul>\\r\\n \\t<li>Simple\/refined carbohydrates. These carbs only have one or two sugar molecules, hence quickly absorbed into the body. These carbs include fruit juice, honey, white flour, and milk.<\/li>\\r\\n \\t<li>Complex carbohydrates. These carbs have more sugar molecules than the former but are healthier and have more nutrients and fibers. They include oats, brown rice, beans and sweet potatoes.<\/li>\\r\\n<\/ul>\\r\\nBoth types of carbs are necessary for the body, but ...\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/\",\"name\":\"Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing - BetterMe\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/shutterstock_525727822.jpg\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00\",\"description\":\"What is the \u2605 BEST TIME TO EAT CARBS? \u27a4 Find out whether nutrient timing matters when you are trying to lose weight or build muscle. 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Here\u2019s what science says.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing","og_description":"What is the \u2605 BEST TIME TO EAT CARBS? \u27a4 Find out whether nutrient timing matters when you are trying to lose weight or build muscle. Here\u2019s what science says.","og_url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/","og_site_name":"BetterMe Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/betterme.health.coaching","article_author":"#","article_modified_time":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1000,"height":667,"url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/shutterstock_525727822.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"ZindzyGracia","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@betterme","twitter_site":"@betterme","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"ZindzyGracia","Est. reading time":"11 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/"},"author":{"name":"BetterMe","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/58ffa041e840240fb24019691a681c53"},"headline":"Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/"},"wordCount":2240,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/shutterstock_525727822.jpg","articleSection":["Nutrition"],"inLanguage":"en-US","articleBody":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nutrient timing is all about eating certain foods at specified times of the day to achieve weight loss, muscle gain, or improved performance. In this article, we shall focus on carbs.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When is the best time to eat carbs when you're looking to lose weight? What about muscle growth? For performance? Is it okay to eat carbs before bed? Follow us into the discussion as we answer all these questions.<\/span>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Why Do Carbs Have A Bad Reputation?<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrates have had a bad reputation for a long time as people believe they're the leading cause for <a href=\"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/alcohol-weight-gain\/\">weight gain<\/a>, among other side effects. Well, let's debunk that myth.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbohydrates are one of the essential macronutrients the body needs alongside fats and protein. Furthermore, carbs provide the most significant body fuel source as it is converted to glucose\/sugar, then from sugar to energy.<\/span>\r\n<h3><b>Types Of Carbohydrates<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All carbs turn to glucose then energy, a process called gluconeogenesis. However, there are two distinct types of dietary carbs that have different effects on the body (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK459280\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Simple\/refined carbohydrates. These carbs only have one or two sugar molecules, hence quickly absorbed into the body. These carbs include fruit juice, honey, white flour, and milk.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Complex carbohydrates. These carbs have more sugar molecules than the former but are healthier and have more nutrients and fibers. They include oats, brown rice, beans and sweet potatoes.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nBoth types of carbs are necessary for the body, but ..."},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/","url":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/","name":"Best Time To Eat Carbs: Separating Facts From Fiction About Nutrient Timing - BetterMe","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/betterme.world\/articles\/best-time-to-eat-carbs\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cdn.betterme.world\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/shutterstock_525727822.jpg","dateModified":"2024-12-16T08:35:01+00:00","description":"What is the \u2605 BEST TIME TO EAT CARBS? \u27a4 Find out whether nutrient timing matters when you are trying to lose weight or build muscle. 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