51. Will carbohydrates give me Diabetes? The CGM episode!

Demonization

Kara Collier and Paul Saladino discuss the risks of demonizing carbohydrates excessively. Kara highlights the unrealistic nature of current dietary guidelines, which suggest 45% to 65% of calories should come from carbohydrates, a recommendation she finds alarming due to its potential harm to the general population 1. Paul agrees, emphasizing the importance of not labeling all carbohydrates as harmful, as this can lead to metabolic inflexibility 2.

I do not believe carbs cause insulin resistance. I think that the wrong type of carbohydrates do like refined carbohydrates.

--- Kara Collier

They both stress the need for a balanced approach, recognizing the value of low-carb diets without completely vilifying carbohydrates.

   

Insulin Resistance

The conversation shifts to the misconception that carbohydrates inherently cause insulin resistance. Paul and Kara explain that while refined carbohydrates can be problematic, carbohydrates themselves are not the root cause of insulin resistance 3. They discuss the concept of physiological insulin resistance, which can occur in individuals on long-term ketogenic diets, leading to elevated fasting glucose levels 4.

This is different than pathological insulin resistance that's occurring in diabetes.

--- Paul Saladino

This highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of carbohydrate intake and its effects on the body.

   

Metabolic Flexibility

Maintaining metabolic flexibility is crucial for overall health, as Kara and Paul emphasize. They argue that completely removing carbohydrates can lead to metabolic inflexibility, where the body struggles to adapt to different fuel sources 5. Paul warns against the rigidity of strict ketogenic diets, suggesting that occasional carbohydrate intake can prevent cognitive decline and improve mental health outcomes 6.

This dogmatism will limit our ability to grow as a community, that it will limit our health.

--- Paul Saladino

The discussion underscores the need for a balanced diet that includes carbohydrates to maintain metabolic health.