Carbohydrates are the most important macronutrient to consume , yet they are the most misunderstood macronutrient. There are tonnes of myths which mislead people into irrational thoughts about CHO consumption in the diet. An example of this is the old "Low CHO, High Protein" diets; which are very unhealthy for you; yet people still do this for weight-loss, even though it's an inefficient, and nonsensical approach to their problem.
Any diet that suggests "no carbs after lunch" , or "no carbs in the morning before exercise", or "no carbs after dinner" is all hype, smoke and mirrors - especially in relation to weight gain or weight loss. What dictates the bodyfat you ultimately gain results primarily from the basic and simplistic equation of 'energy in -vs- energy out' (ie: energy consumed via food and beverages , versus energy expended from exercise, and from basic organ functions (resting metabolic rate)). Anything else may influence your energy levels, or health in another manner; though specifically in relation to weight gain or weight loss?; it's a simple energy balance equation and nothing more.
No truth at all. While you rest, you're still using energy. You're still burning kilojoules (the Australian measure of energy, ie: "calories") while you rest, because you still need energy to maintain organ function and to proliferate cellular activity (such as maintaining muscle tension at rest). For example; if you require 12,000kJ's per day, and you've only consumed 8,000kJ prior to bed; and you choose to then have a snack worth 2000kJ's just before bed.... you're still , as a whole , short in your overall energy intake, thus you'll actually burn a very miniscule amount of body fat; (ie: not store / increase it).
Carbohydrates as a whole are essential ; they're meant to form the majority of our diet for both healthy individuals, and athletes. CHO is the most efficient source of energy; it's the most chemically simplistic nutrient that is converted into glucose for energy (ATP) production; and for cognitive (brain) function. While other energy, in Fat and Protein, are able to be converted into glucose as well; they're either excessive in energy (Fat), or inefficient in energy return per kilojoule (Protein); thus more taxing on the body. Hence why carbohydrates predominantly fuel exercise; particularly at high intensities.
Prior to exercise, particularly for a training session which is an hour or so in duration; low GI carbohydrates are necessary to prolong activity and energy supply; whereas high GI carbohydrates should be taken during endurance events (sugar gels, bananas); OR, directly after a work-out to assist spiking insulin, and to promote optimal recovery. Both forms of carbohydrates have their benefits; both are necessary!
