Are carbs your friend or enemy?

Good morning,

The debate over carbohydrates is never-ending.

Some believe carbs are inflammatory and should be avoided, while others claim they’re essential for brain function and metabolism.

So which is it?

The truth is, your genetics determine how well your body processes carbohydrates.

The role of the AMY1 gene

The AMY1 gene influences how efficiently your body breaks down and utilises carbohydrates.

There are three main variations:

• AA: Poor carbohydrate metabolism—your body struggles to break down carbs, making you more prone to blood sugar spikes and fat storage.

• AT: Moderate carbohydrate metabolism—you can process some carbs, but too many may still cause issues.

• TT: Optimal carbohydrate metabolism—your body efficiently digests and uses carbs for energy with minimal negative effects.

How to use this information?

If you’re struggling with energy crashes, digestive discomfort, or weight gain after eating carbs, your AMY1 gene might not be working in your favour. 

Here’s what you can do:

1. Identify your AMY1 variation—your genetics hold the key to understanding how your body responds to carbs.

2. Recognise signs of suboptimal carb metabolism—bloating, fatigue, cravings, and difficulty losing weight.

3. Adjust your carb intake accordingly—people with lower AMY1 activity may need to focus on slow-digesting carbs and lower overall intake, while those with optimal function can handle more.

4. Support digestion with key strategies—pair carbs with protein and fats, consume more fibre, and choose nutrient-dense sources over processed options.

Your ideal carb intake isn’t about trends—it’s about what works best for your genetics. 

Want to discover your carbohydrate metabolism profile? Check here.

Watch my video here to learn more about optimising your diet based on your DNA.

Here’s to eating smarter,

PS. If you are needing personalized support in your health, book a call with my team here.