Why We Need to Stop Fearing Carbs — with Harley Pasternak

In this episode of Practically Healthy with Dr. Melina, I sit down with longtime friend, celebrity trainer, nutrition expert, and bestselling author Harley Pasternak to discuss his new book, The Carb Reset Diet. We dive into the science behind carbohydrates, why carbs have been unfairly demonized for decades, and how social media nutrition misinformation has fueled fear around foods like fruit, legumes, whole grains, and even vegetables. Harley explains why many popular “carb-heavy” foods are actually high-fat ultra-processed foods, why fiber is one of the most overlooked nutrients in modern diets, and how low-carb extremes may negatively impact energy, metabolism, satiety, gut health, and even women’s hormones. We also discuss: Why healthy carbs can support sustainable weight loss The importance of fiber and gut health The problem with diet extremism and nutrition misinformation The difference between whole-food carbs and ultra-processed foods Why no food group should automatically be “forbidden” Harley also shares his simple PATH method for building balanced meals, plus practical ways to create a realistic, sustainable approach to nutrition without fear, guilt, or extreme restriction.