Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are molecules made of hydrogen carbon and oxygen
they include starches, sugar and fibre. They are the body's
main source of energy and the first that the body uses. Carbohydrates
are found mostly in plant food such as fruits, vegetables, grain
and potatoes. Milk also contains some carbohydrates. Carbohydrates
are normally classed into two different types complex and simple
carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates require digestion before
the energy released can be used by the body and because of this
gives steady blood sugar levels. Simple carbohydrates such as
sugars go straight into the blood stream and as such give a
large rise in blood sugar levels and this gives the body a lift
and energy for about 20 minutes before it lowers and a sense
of depletion results.
About 50% of the bodies calorie intake should be from carbohydrates
to supply the body with its energy needs. A major problem
in the industrialised world is that most of the carbohydrates
that are consumed come from a refined source and as such much
of the nutritional value and nutrients have been stripped
away. Refined foods tend to be higher in sugar and fat and
therefore contain more calories; a diet that is high in refined
carbohydrates tends to lead to diabetes and hypoglycaemia.
Unrefined carbohydrates include fruits, vegetables, peas and
grains. Refined carbohydrates are white flour, white rice,
cakes biscuits and snack foods. So there is no need to be
afraid of carbohydrates as many popular diets suggest but
it is best to keep in mind the type of carbohydrate that you
eat.
Fibre
Fibre is a complex carbohydrate that the body cannot digest
and remains intact as it passes through the body. Fibre comes
from plant cellulose and comes from leafy greens, beans, sweetcorn,
apples and pears. It is important in keeping a healthy digestive
system.
Sugar
Sugar is a simple carbohydrate and accounts for the majority
of carbohydrate that is consumed in a modern diet. Sugar if
overeaten is quickly converted to fat and is responsible for
tooth decay heart disease and diabetes.
|
