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Lyndi CohenAustralian nutritionist
Country:
 Australia |
Biography of Lindy Cohen
Australian Dietician Lindy Cohen is an advocate for consuming carbohydrates in the evening, claiming that it can help with weight loss and improve the quality of sleep. While many people trying to lose weight believe that eating carbs in the evening is not a good idea, there is evidence that "nighttime carbs" are not beneficial. However, Cohen remains one of those who are not willing to give up carbs during dinner time.
Over the past few years, carbohydrates have earned a bad reputation, she says. Cohen emphasizes that not all carbs should be seen as equal. Processed or refined carbs, such as sweetened drinks, fruit juices, baked goods, white bread, white pasta, and white rice, can indeed cause a sudden spike in blood sugar and lead to weight gain. Many people believe that simply avoiding carbs in the evening helps to "keep unwanted kilograms at bay." However, according to Cohen, this does not work.
The Australian Dietician recommends consuming "smart carbs" in the late hours - slow-burning, unprocessed foods such as brown rice, quinoa, legumes, milk, yogurt, and vegetables like sweet potatoes. Cohen states that "smart carbs," along with physical activity, are considered the best way to control weight. "Our bodies convert carbohydrates into glycogen, which is stored in our muscles. These reserves give us strength for workouts," she explains. Cohen also assures that consuming unprocessed carbs at night can be an effective help for those who have trouble sleeping. She explains that "smart carbs" can influence hormones, particularly those related to relaxation, such as serotonin.
"Eating 'smart carbs' raises blood sugar levels, but not so sharply that it affects insulin levels (metabolism levels)," says Cohen. "You not only gain control over your weight but also help maintain a stable mood."
If you have a craving for something sweet, especially in the evening, a small portion of "smart carbs," according to Lindy, can help suppress unhealthy cravings. "If you feel like eating at night, a large piece of fruit or some Greek yogurt will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also help you sleep better," assures the Australian Dietician.
Her advice is not only applicable to late-night eating, as consuming carbs such as pasta and white bread can cause weight problems regardless of the time you sit down to eat. "Processed carbs with sugars can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar, followed shortly by a slump. As a result of such fluctuation, both your mood and energy levels drop," explains Lindy. "Smart carbs are responsible for a constant energy flow, which helps you maintain a good mood and the energy you need for the whole day."
- They are an excellent source of long-lasting energy.
- Using "smart carbs" can aid in weight loss.
- Such carbs help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- They improve your mood by helping regulate hormones such as serotonin and insulin.
