Carbohydrates

Definition:

Carbohydrates, often shortened to ‘carbs’, are one of the three main nutrients your body needs for energy, along with protein and fat. They’re found in a variety of foods like grains, fruits, vegetables and dairy.

Your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose (blood sugar), which provides the main source of energy for your cells tissues and organs. Glucose can be used immediately for energy, or it can be stored in your liver and muscles for later use.

There are three main types of carbohydrates:

• Sugars: Simple carbohydrates that are your body’s quickest source of energy. They’re found naturally in fruits, vegetables and milk, or added to processed foods and drinks.
• Starches: Complex carbohydrates that are made up of long chains of sugar molecules. They take longer for your body to break down into glucose than simple carbohydrates. Starchy foods include bread, cereal, pasta, potatoes, corn, and beans.
• Fibre: A type of complex carbohydrate that your body can’t digest. It’s important for gut health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Fibre is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans. ^[1]