Carbohydrates are the fuel of brain. They provide it with the energy essential for its proper functioning, especially since the brain has almost no autonomy: it must therefore be supplied with sugar continuously. In addition, unlike other organs, the brain is unable to burn fat for energy; it can only do this from glucose. A good contribution in carbohydrates is therefore essential for all its functions: concentration, memory, learning abilities, mood, excitability.
The role of carbohydrates in the brain does not end there. “They also participate in the secretion of serotonin insofar as they allow tryptophan to be captured in priority compared to other amino acids in order to be transformed into serotonin”, explains Laëtitia Agullo.
What type of carbohydrates to choose to limit stress?
Of course, the brain must constantly be supplied with carbohydrates. But that doesn’t mean you have to eat sweets all day long! On the contrary, you have to choose your carbohydrates wisely, and sweets are certainly not one of them …
To continuously nourish the brain, we will focus on foods that provide slow and prolonged release energy to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which are harmful to morale and mood. Here too, the notion ofglycemic index (GI) comes into play, and it is towards foods with a low GI that you should preferably turn.