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Carb Myths Busted

September 26, 2007

Myths about carbohydrates are widespread. Here’s the scoop on some common misconceptions about carbs:

• Myth: Carbs make you overweight. Truth: Eating too many calories, from any food source, not just starches and sugars, causes your body to produce extra pounds of body fat.
• Myth: Carbs cause hyperactivity. Truth: Sugar has been wrongly accused of causing hyperactivity and attention deficit-hyperactive disorder in children for years. No scientific evidence supports any link between the intake of sugars and hyperactivity.
• Myth: Carbs cause diabetes. Truth: Again, the answer is no. Sugars and other carbohydrates do not cause diabetes.

Carbohydrates are the main power source for your brain and muscles. Chosen wisely, carbohydrate-rich foods — whole and enriched grain foods, fruits, vegetables, beans — deliver more than energy. They also provide important vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.

Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team