Have you ever found yourself wondering why some people can consume large quantities of bananas without gaining weight while you seem to gain it from just gazing upon a potato? While being carb intolerant might mean it will be harder for you to maintain weight control, don’t despair; these simple guidelines can still help.
[Note: for your listening convenience, we have also prepared an audio recording of this article if that’s more your style – click here if that applies to you].]
Your friend and you have decided to meet for dinner tonight.
Your friend ordered a rice and potato sandwich with spaghetti as an add-on.
“I’m carb tolerant,” he declares, taking another sip from his beer while admiring the tempting dessert buffet.
Your order, on the other hand, would include green salad with salmon without chickpeas.
Your body does not tolerate carbs well.
But you have grown frustrated with your friend.
Indeed, you would probably do anything for a taste of his sandwich! Even if that meant stabbing him with your fork.
What exactly is “carb tolerance?” And do we even believe in its existence?
Sure, this phrase often pops up during dinner conversations today.
But does anyone really understand what this term entails?
People considered “carb intolerant” may just eat too many carbs — or the wrong kind — such as cookies and donuts.
Perhaps their issue lies elsewhere – perhaps their “baked potato” contains more sour cream and butter than actual potatoes!
Conversely, some individuals might simply not have the capacity to process carbohydrates in the same manner as everyone else does.
Simply put, their genes could be at fault.
Genetic Polymorphisms and Carbohydrate Tolerance
So the genetic explanation may not be far off base after all!
Researchers recently identified an association between obesity and an individual’s ability to produce amylase, an enzyme which assists with breaking down starch in your mouth.
But why would the levels of this enzyme vary between individuals?
Humans evolved to eat a wide range of macro- and micronutrients. So one would assume that we all possess similar digestive abilities.
