Understanding carbohydrates and sugar is key to making healthier choices and managing your weight effectively.

Let’s break it down into simple terms: 

1. What Are Carbohydrates? 

Carbohydrates are one of the three main nutrients your body uses for energy (alongside protein and fat). They come in two main forms: 

 * Simple Carbs: Found in sugar, candy, soda, and processed foods. These break down quickly in your body, causing a rapid spike in blood sugar. 

 * Complex Carbs: Found in whole grains, vegetables, and legumes. These take longer to digest, providing a steady release of energy. 

2. What’s the Difference Between Sugar and Carbs? 

 * All sugars are carbohydrates, but not all carbs are sugars. 

 * Simple carbs (like candy) are essentially sugar, while complex carbs (like oats) contain fiber, which slows digestion and helps your body use the energy more effectively. 

3. How Does Sugar Get Stored as Fat?  

When you consume sugar (or simple carbs): 

•  Your body converts it into glucose (blood sugar) for energy. 

• If you consume too much sugar and don’t use it for energy (through activity or exercise), your body stores the excess in two ways: 

* Glycogen: Stored in your liver and muscles for short-term energy. 

* Fat: If your glycogen stores are full, the extra sugar is converted into fat and stored in your body. 

4. Why Is Sugar More Harmful as We Age? 

As we age, our mitochondria (the energy powerhouses in our cells) become less efficient, meaning: 

* We burn sugar less effectively. 

* Excess sugar leads to faster fat storage and more oxidative stress, which can contribute to fatigue, weight gain, and chronic health issues. 

5. Tips to Manage Sugar and Carbs Effectively 

* Focus on complex carbs (like brown rice, quinoa, or veggies) over simple carbs. 

* Limit added sugars (found in candy, soda, and baked goods). 

* Pair carbs with protein and healthy fats to slow digestion and prevent blood sugar spikes. 

* Stay active to burn off excess glucose and prevent it from being stored as fat. 

* Practice moderation. A little sugar won’t hurt, but consistent overconsumption can have long-term effects. 

Carbs and sugar aren’t “bad,” but understanding how your body processes them helps you make better choices for your health. 

Pro Tip: If you’re trying to cut down on sugar, start by tracking your intake for a few days. Awareness is the first step to change!