Can We Talk About the Great Carbohydrate Cancel Culture for a Minute?
Let’s rewind.
At some point between the rise of detox teas and the avocado toast takeover, carbs got canceled.
Suddenly, bread became “bad,” rice was “regrettable,” and fruit—yes, fruit—was something you had to “earn.”
And for what?
So many women—especially moms, creatives, and wellness-minded achievers—started cutting out entire food groups trying to feel better… only to end up tired, moody, and low-key obsessed with bagels at midnight.
Spoiler: it’s not you.
It’s the diet culture narrative we’ve been sold—and it’s time we unsubscribe.
Here’s the Real Deal on Carbs
Carbohydrates are not the villain.
In fact, they’re your body’s preferred source of energy.
As Registered Dietitian Rachael Hartley, author of Gentle Nutrition, explains:
“Demonizing carbs is one of the most harmful diet trends—and one of the least scientifically sound. Complex carbs are essential for brain function, mood regulation, and long-term energy.”
Translation?
Your brain literally runs on glucose. Your hormones thrive on balance. And your gut loves fiber-rich carbs more than it loves your latest protein bar.
But I Thought Cutting Carbs Helped Me Lose Weight?
Sure, going low-carb might show short-term results. But it often comes at a cost: low energy, slowed metabolism, poor sleep, and—you guessed it—a cycle of cravings and guilt.
Many people confuse water loss and calorie restriction with health progress. But what happens when life gets full again? When you’re juggling a job, kids, a business, or just… being human?
Restrictive eating becomes unsustainable.
And that “cheat day”? It turns into binge guilt faster than you can say sourdough.
What Happens When You Bring Carbs Back (The Smart Way)?
Let’s talk about real food rhythms—not food rules.
Here’s what happens when you eat carbs intentionally and unapologetically:
✅ Steadier energy throughout the day (no more 3pm crashes)
✅ Improved mood + better sleep (serotonin needs carbs to be made!)
✅ Better workouts + muscle recovery
✅ Freedom from food obsession
✅ Balanced blood sugar when paired with protein and healthy fats
It’s not about eating all the carbs. It’s about eating the right kinds in the right balance—and, more importantly, in a way that supports your real life.
Simple, Stylish Ways to Reclaim Carbs (No Shame Required)
If you’re ready to stop side-eying your pantry, here are a few carb-loving power moves to try this week:
🥯 Breakfast:
– Steel-cut oats with almond butter + berries
– Whole grain toast with avocado + eggs
– Sweet potato hash with greens + sausage
🍽 Lunch/Dinner:
– Brown rice bowls with grilled chicken + tahini drizzle
– Whole grain pasta with roasted veggies and pesto
– Lentil curry with basmati rice
🍫 Snacks:
– Apple + peanut butter
– Roasted chickpeas
– Popcorn with nutritional yeast
Pro tip: Pair your carbs with protein + fiber = longer energy + balanced blood sugar.
The Takeaway: It’s Not a Carb Problem—It’s a Culture Problem
If you’ve been feeling like your wellness journey is tied to how much you can restrict, measure, or eliminate…
Here’s your permission slip to do it differently.
🥖 Your sandwich isn’t sabotaging your health.
🍚 Your rice bowl isn’t ruining your progress.
🍝 Your pasta dinner isn’t a failure.
It’s fuel.
It’s nourishment.
It’s joy.
As Intuitive Eating expert Elyse Resch puts it:
“When you make peace with food, you learn to trust your body. You stop dieting and start living.”
💬 Join the Conversation:
Drop a comment below and tell me your ultimate comfort carb.
Let’s break the guilt spiral and rebuild the joy of eating—one slice of sourdough at a time.
