Carbs have been demonized and labeled as “the enemy,” “fattening,” and “inflammatory,” among others. With the aid of fear mongering media reports and articles directing people to avoid carbs, we have become a society in fear of bread, grains, and even fruit and certain vegetables.

The truth, as supported by the vast majority of the professional nutrition and dietetics community, is that carbohydrates are an essential component of a balanced, healthy diet.

So, before you kick carbs to the curb, let’s take a look at why they are important to health, performance, and well-being.