Complex Carbs Build Muscle
Still scared of carbs? Fear not—especially if you’re looking to build muscle mass.
Granted, not all carbs are created equal. That donut will never do you any favors, even if it’s organic, gluten-free, non-GMO and vegan. Just put it down and walk away…or rather, walk towards healthy carbs that can help you build muscle.
We’re talking the really, really good stuff here: whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, barley, oats and those winter veggies like carrots, beets, squash and sweet potatoes.
Turns out that unprocessed whole food carbs are really good for you, particularly if muscle mass matters. They help the body in its production of lean muscle mass and they also support the nervous system. In fact, carbs provide you the energy you need to do the work to get the lean muscle in the first place.
According to One Green Planet, “Muscle cells require not just protein and vital fats to function and perform, but they also require carbs to one, propel energy, and two, to recover and rebuild those muscle tissues, which are torn down during exercise.”
All those healthy carbs bring glycogen to muscle tissue, helping the body to recover and heal more quickly. Eat those healthy carbs with a plant-based protein, which is also easier on the body, and that glycogen has an even easier time repairing the muscles and giving you quicker recovery and faster results.
Root vegetables, whole grains beans (high in protein as well as good carbs), even leafy greens are a good source of complex carbs that can help you build muscle and achieve your weight goals. And a bonus: these foods are also rich sources of dietary fiber, which is good for your gut and your heart.
While eliminating carbs may help you to lose weight in the short-term, commit to healthy carbs for the long haul and your body will thank you.
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