The amount of carbohydrates you should consume each day depends on your age, sex, activity level and health. A general guideline suggests that carbohydrates should make up 45-65% of your total daily calorie intake.
Carbohydrates are an important nutrient that provides the body with energy and essential nutrients. How much carbs you should be eating in a day depends on various factors such as age, physical activity, metabolic health and personal dietary preferences. An athlete will need significantly more calories and carbs per day, tahn someone with a desk job.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that carbohydrates should contribute to 45-65% of total daily calories. This range provides flexibility based on individual needs and preferences.1
Another way to determine the specific amount of carbohydrates to consume per day is to consider the total daily caloric intake. For example if someone follows a 2000 calorie diet and aims to consume 50% of calories from carbohydrates they would aim for around 250 grams of carbohydrates per day (because carbohydrates provide 4 calories per gram).
Active individuals and athletes may require higher carbohydrate intake to fuel their energy needs while individuals with certain health conditions like diabetes may need to monitor carbohydrate intake more closely.2
It’s also important to choose quality carbohydrates. Whole and nutrient-dense sources of carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes can provide important nutrients and fiber while minimizing intake of refined sugars and processed foods.3