Carbohydrates are the main source of energy in our body. Eating the right type of carbohydrates in the correct quantity is extremely essential.Therefore everyone should know all about the carbohydrates they consume.
Carbohydrates are compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. There are basically four types of carbohydrates; sugar, starch, fiber and gum. Sugar is also known as simple sugar.
While, another name for gums is complex carbohydrates. Simple sugars are carbohydrates composed of either one or two units of sugar. These are called monosaccharide or disaccharides respectively. Complex carbohydrates, on the contrary are long chains of single sugar units. Some examples of complex carbohydrates are starch, glycogen, and cellulose.
Carbohydrates are metabolised and used instantaneously by the body for its immediate energy needs. The carbohydrate molecules are broken down into their individual monosaccharides as soon as we ingest them. These monosaccharides are broken down further in our small intestines. In the small intestine, pancreatic amylase is secreted by the body which executes this process.
Then, these monosaccharides are absorbed into the blood stream. These monosaccharides are utilised first to meet the energy requirements of the body. The remaining monosaccharides are stored in the liver as glycogen. Glycogen is a prime source of energy for the human body. Any excess carbohydrates that the body does not need are converted in fats and stored in the body.
Most of the carbohydrates consumed are converted into glucose, which is the main source of energy for the body. Glucose provides energy for many physiological functions in our body. The muscles require glucose for their movement. All the organs need glucose for their functioning.
When adequate amount of carbohydrates are not consumed, the body uses other diet components as a source of energy. The secondary sources of energy for the body are protein and fats. However, it is important to note that almost half of the calories required by the body are derived from carbohydrates. Therefore, your must ensure that all carbohydrates consumed are from healthy sources.
Some of the healthy sources of carbohydrates are whole grains, fruits and vegetables. You should consume carbohydrates that are low in fat and high in fiber. Examples of unhealthy sources of carbohydrates are cookies, sugary cereals, white rice, refined white bread etc.
Simple sugars should also be consumed in limited quantities. This is mainly because simple sugars are very easy to digest. They are rapidly absorbed into the blood stream through the small intestine. Sucrose, glucose, fructose are examples of simple sugars.
Carbohydrates In Our Diet
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy in our body. Eating the right type of carbohydrates in the correct quantity is extremely essential.Therefore everyo
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2020-11-03
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