We've all heard it - "carbs are evil". There are fad diets that proclaim the way to lose weight is to cut out carbs.
The truth is carbs are not only good for you, but also a necessary nutrient. Studies show that diets that include complex or high-fibre carbs (such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains) actually help you lose weight. For those who are looking to add muscle, carbs also play an important role in providing energy for mass-building workouts. Without enough carbs in your diet, your body would then have to utilize protein for energy - thus making less protein available to repair and build muscle tissue.
The key with any nutrition plan is to be aware of the total calories you require and to have a proper balance of protein, carbs and fats.