Carbohydrates

-The major source of energy for the body


Most foods contain carbohydrates (carbs), which the body breaks down into simple sugars and use as energy. We all need to eat carbs for our body to function on the highest level it possibly can.


There are two types of Carbohydrates


To learn the difference in these two types is crucial if you for example want to loose weight or to get that longed for six-pack.
The two types are named: simple and complex.

Simple Carbohydrates:
Another name for these are simple sugars. Simple sugars are found in refined sugars, like the white sugar you put into your cup of tea. If you eat sweets, you're eating simple carbs or sugars. But you'll also find simple sugars are in more nutritious foods, such as fruit and milk. It's better to get your simple sugars from food like fruit and milk. Why? Because they contain vitamins, fiber, and important nutrients like calcium. Sweets does not.


You´ll find natural sugars in fruit and vegetables.


Refined sugars are found in:


• biscuits, cakes 

• chocolate

• Jams

• brown and white cane sugar

• Most fast food as pizza and hamburgers

• prepared foods and sauces

• soft drinks

• sweets and snack bars.  


Complex carbohydrates:

Another name is starches. Starches include grain products, such as bread, crackers, pasta, and rice. As with simple sugars, some complex carbohydrate foods are better choices than others. Refined grains, such as white flour and white rice, have been processed, which removes nutrients and fiber. But unrefined grains still contain these vitamins and minerals. Unrefined grains also are rich in fiber, which helps your digestive system work well. Fiber helps you feel full, so you are less likely to overeat these foods. That explains why a bowl of oatmeal fills you up better than sugary candy that has the same amount of calories as the oatmeal.


Complex carbohydrates as natural starches are found in:

• bananas

• brown rice

• chickpeas

• lentils

• nuts

• oats

• potatoes

• root vegetables

• wholegrain/meal products

Complex carbohydrates as refined starches are found in:

• biscuits and cakes

• Most fast food as pizzas and hamburgers

• sugary processed breakfast cereals

• white bread

• white flour

• white pasta

• white rice

Our next piece in these series will cover how the body uses carbs so you could get a deeper insight on the importance of knowing your carbs.