A case for carbs

Diet culture gave them a bad name. But for women in midlife, carbohydrates are an essential nutrient.

- ASHLEIGH AUSTEN

After decades of low-carb fads and confusing diet advice, many of us are still wary of carbohydrates. However, far from being something to fear or avoid, they play an incredibly vital role.

Carbohydrates fuel our bodies, nourish our gut health and support our hormonal health through life's many changes. So why are we still cutting them out?

"We've got this idea that calories are bad but energy is good," says Dr Emma Beckett, a molecular nutritionist and senior lecturer at the University of Newcastle. "But calories are where we get our energy, and carbs are one of the most accessible sources of that energy."

Why we need carbs

One of the most common midlife complaints? Fatigue. Whether it's juggling work, caring for family or adjusting to the symptoms of perimenopause, many women say they don't have the energy they used to. But the solution might be simpler than we think.

"When people start quitting carbs, they often feel lethargic," explains Dr Beckett. "And when you don't have enough energy, it's harder to do things like exercise or take care of yourself."

Not all carbohydrates are created equal, of course. Highly processed varieties - such as sugary snacks or white bread - can lead to quick energy spikes followed by crashes. However, complex carbs, such as wholegrains, legumes, and vegetables, provide long-lasting energy that supports us throughout the day.