Diet trends can come and go, but the low carb diet fad is one of the most persistent. Proponents of low carb diets claim that carbohydrates are inherently unhealthy and lead to weight gain, but the reality is that nothing could be further from the truth. Here are four ways carbohydrates are good for you.

1. They give you more energy.

Carbohydrates are your body's preferred energy source. In order to prepare for big races, elite runners carbo-load, which means they eat a lot of carbohydrates the night before the event. According to Runner's World, when you eat carbs, your body converts them into glycogen which is the fuel your muscles use. If you're an athletic person who wants to perform at your best, you should incorporate more carbs into your diet. Carbohydrate-rich beverages are a great way to get more carbs without feeling heavy or weighed down.

2. They're found in the world's healthiest foods.

Your doctor is always telling you to eat more vegetables because vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Vegetables are also rich in carbohydrates! Carrots and various varieties of squash are all high in carbs. They're also high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fiber, and a whole host of other vital nutrients. Staying away from carbs means you'll miss out on a world of delicious vegetables, and eating a no- or low-carb diet can actually lead to nutrient deficiencies.

3. They're easy to digest.

If you have an upset or sensitive stomach, the thought of eating might seem unappealing. However, you still need to eat something to keep your energy up. Simple carbohydrates are an excellent solution for days when you have a delicate stomach because they're gentle on your system. Crackers, dry toast, and drinks rich in carbohydrates are all easy to digest. It's a good idea to keep these foods on hand in case you wake up with a stomachache one day.

4. They'll help you feel better.

Carbohydrates' health benefits don't end with your body; they can also help your mind. When you eat carbohydrate-heavy foods, your brain produces more serotonin. Serotonin is one of the neurochemicals that helps you feel happy and content, so eating carbs can actually help to reduce depression and improve your mood.

Don't be fooled by the scare-tactics of anti-carb proponents. Carbohydrates are very good for you when eaten as part of a balanced diet. If you'd like to reap some of these health benefits, try to incorporate more carbohydrates into your diet.