Carbohydrates have a poor reputation, particularly when it comes to weight gain. However, carbohydrates, or carbs, aren’t all harmful. Carbs have a legitimate role in the diet because of their numerous health advantages. Carbohydrates are necessary for the body to function properly.
Some carbohydrates are more beneficial to your health than others. It is important for you to learn more about carbohydrates and how to choose a balanced diet to help improve your health.
What You Need To Know About Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a macronutrient that can be found in various foods and beverages. The majority of carbohydrates are found in plant-based meals, like grains. Carbohydrates are also added to processed foods in starch or sugar.
Natural sources of carbs include the following:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Milk
- Nuts
- Grains
- Seeds
- Beans
- Peas
- Lentils
The Different Types of Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are divided into three major groups, and these are:
- Sugar
The most basic carbohydrate is sugar. It presents itself naturally in some foods, such as fruits, vegetables, milk, and milk products. Fructose is the sugar found in fruits, sucrose is the sugar found in table sugar, and lactose is the sugar found in milk. Many meals, such as cookies, sweet drinks, and candies, have added sugars. - Starch
A complex carbohydrate is a starch. This indicates that it is made up of several sugar units linked together. Vegetables, cereals, and cooked dry beans and peas all contain starch. - Fiber
Fiber is a complex carbohydrate as well. Fruits, vegetables, cereals, and grains all contain it.
Health Factors of Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. During digestion, starches and sugar are broken down into simple sugars. They are subsequently taken into the bloodstream and become blood sugar (blood glucose).
Whole grains and dietary fiber from whole meals can help you avoid heart disease and stroke. Obesity, colon and rectal tumors, and type 2 diabetes may benefit from fiber. It is commonly known that fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system.
Conclusion
Sugary drinks, sweets, and candies are examples of foods that contain added sugars and refined grains. Choose fruits, veggies, and whole grains instead.
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