How many carbs should I eat each day?

Our body uses carbohydrates as its main source of energy and as such we need a good amount to keep us going through the day, especially if we are involved in any form of exercise. The general recommendation is to have 50-60% of your calories come from carbs. If you are on a 2000 calorie diet, 1,000 - 1,200 calories (multiply 2,000 by 0.50 and multiply 2,000 again by 0.60) should come from carbohydrates. Since carbs contain 4 calories per gram, you should eat between 250 and 300 grams (divide 1,000 by 4 and divide 1,200 by 4) of carbs each day. While this may seem like a large amount, carbs are the body's preferred source of energy. While it can use fat and protein for energy, carbs are much more efficient at delivering the energy you need. There are two main types of carbs: simple and complex. Simple carbs are found in candy, soda, and anything made from white flour. Complex carbs are found in vegetables, whole grain flour, oats and cereals. You should focus on increasing your intake of complex carbs while minimizing the amount of simple carbs you eat.

• 2000 Calorie Diet
  • 50 - 60% Carbohydrates: 1,000 - 1,200 calories from carbs or 250 - 300 grams of carbs

Now that you how many carbs to eat, find out where to get it all by visiting the Guide to Carbohydrates. You can also check out what foods others are eating to increase their intake of healthy carbs or share your own tips at the nutrition forums.

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