Whether it's bread, pasta or potatoes, we're often led to believe that carbs are the natural enemy of weight loss.

However, for one dietitian, this couldn't be further from the truth.

Melissa Meier revealed to the five reasons why she will never cut out the food group from her diet.

Here's why you shouldn't pass on potatoes just yet.

1. They boost your energy

First on Meier's list of reasons as to why it's good to eat carbohydrates is that they are an 'energy-boosting superfood'.

Beans, chickpeas and lentils aren't just a good source of long-lasting energy, they're also a great plant-based protein that helps to promote muscle growth and repair. 

She also added that some of the vegetables are like superfoods as they can help to promote a healthy gut.

2. Science says you shouldn't

Another of her top reasons for not ditching carbs is that science actually dictates that you shouldn't.

Eating grains (wholegrains in particular) has been linked to a longer life, as well as a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes and even cancer

While this doesn't mean you should eat a huge bowl of spaghetti every day, it does mean it's important to concentrate on getting the correct number of complex carbs

3. They are part of a balanced diet 

While they might be slightly more calorific than other foods, Meier maintains that carbs form part of a balanced diet - even those in dairy, which is a source of carbs thanks to the natural sugar lactose.

She recommends you opt for foods like milk, yoghurt and cheese, which are both rich in protein and calcium - which is crucial for strong bones and teeth.

4. We need immune-supporting fruits 

Fruits are an important source of carbohydrates, and Meier said the next time someone tells you to avoid fruit because of the sugar in it, you should ignore them.

Yes, fruit contains natural sugars, but it's still super nutritious - and there are no types of fruit that are better or worse than any other.

Aim for two varied pieces each day for optimum health and disease-fighting antioxidants.

5. Potatoes are nutritionally necessary

Last but not least, Meier said that starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn are valuable to any diet and should never be cut.

Whether it's a mashed sweet potato or a baked jacket potato with you dinner, both are filled with fibre that feeds the good bacteria in your gut.