While it is important to maintain a good balance between energy intake and energy expenditure, public opinion researchers is that people who have a diet rich in carbohydrates are less likely to accumulate body fat than those who have a diet low in carbohydrates and high in fat. Here are some of the reasons underlying these observations:
- The energy density of diets rich in carbohydrates is lower because they contain, weight for weight, fewer calories than fat. In addition, foods rich in fiber also tend to be bulky, so nourishing.
- Studies have shown that carbohydrates cause a rapid feeling of fullness, therefore, people who have a diet rich in carbohydrates are less likely to overeat.
- It was also suggested a very low proportion of carbohydrates in food is converted into fat in the body, mainly because it is a process in which the body does derive little benefit. Instead, the body tends to use preferably the carbohydrates in an energy goal.
Regarding oral health, research in recent years allow a more rational approach to the role of sugars and other carbohydrates in dental caries. It is now strongly recommended that programs to prevent dental caries no longer be solely focused on the absorption or non-absorption of sugars, but rather the intake of fluoride, on good oral hygiene and a varied diet