Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: Two Main Functions Provide energy preferred fuel source for your body spares Protein If body does not have the right amount of carbs it will use protein for fuel Maintain digestive health Fiber helps food move through intestinal tract

Carbohydrates: Two Types Simple chemically: one or two linked sugars supply energy do not usually supply any other nutrients or fiber Complex chemically: three or more linked sugars supply energy supply other nutrients and fiber

Simple Carbohydrates: Issues Dental problems Obesity Heart disease Diabetes Rising and falling blood sugar The pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin

Simple Carbohydrates: Foods Whole foods fruit milk products vegetables Refined or processed foods white bread candies cakes pies cookies regular soda

Complex Carbohydrates Provides dietary fiber Aids in regular elimination Found only in foods from plant sources

Complex Carbohydrates: Dietary Fiber Insoluble Fiber doesn’t dissolve in water lowers the risk of colon cance r Soluble Fiber dissolves in water lowers cholesterol Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends grams of fiber a day

Complex Carbohydrates: Foods beans lentils dried peas starchy foods whole-grain breads whole-grain cereals