Under the Pillar FOOD AS MEDICINE, we need to briefly address the overriding importance of the master hormone, insulin. When we ingest carbohydrates, we activate insulin release, which then stores the broken down carbohydrates (glucose) into our liver and skeletal muscles as glycogen (stored glucose) for future use. One of the problems is that most of us eat more carbohydrates than we can use, and then it gets stored as fat. Another problem is that by constantly consuming carbs, we always have high insulin in our blood. This high insulin blocks the energy-releasing hormone, glucagon, from coming into the bloodstream and opening up our energy stores, so we are in constant fat storage. When we are in high insulin mode, fat storage mode, we can't access our stored energy and so need another quick fix of glucose (sugar, processed grains, etc.,). So this cycle leads to a state of insulin resistance, which means we need more insulin to remove sugar from our blood and thus becoming more insulin resistant. Our highly processed, delicious food has all the fiber, fat, and proteins removed, leaving us with a fine powdered, highly insulin spiking food. Food in its whole form, veggies, berries, nuts, etc. has its original fiber and other nutrients present, protecting us from high insulin spikes. Just a couple thoughts on insulin, a master hormone. Interestingly, we are told to eat lots of grains(high insulin spiking) and avoid too much animal fats(low to zero insulin spiking) FUN FACT Those who eat high carb and low fat (per recommendations of US food charts) get fat! Those who eat high fat and low carb(contrary to "approved" food chart ) get skinny! in health
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Coach CouchSmall business owner, health enthusiast, and Primal Health Coach. Archives
October 2021
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