Carbohydrates include the monosaccharides and disaccharides (sugars) and the polysaccharides (starches and complex carbohydrates, including dietary fibre).
Functions in the body
Glucose from starches and sugars is the main source of energy for body cells and is more efficiently used than the energy available from fat and protein.
Glucose is the energy source required by the central nervous system. Carbohydrates have a protein sparing effect, allowing protein to be used for tissue growth.
Dietary fibre is important in maintaining the health of the gastrointestinal tract.
Carbohydrates
Diet's high in Refined Carbohydrate's are easy to fall into.
Refined Carbohydrates cause your blood sugar levels to spike, they then drop quickly causing you to "crash" and feel hungry, only a short time later, so you eat more to feel better, and the cycle continues.
Excess intake is common. The carbohydrates you eat are stored as fat, leading to a continuous increase in body fat, as the "spiking and crashing" cycle continues, the road to excess body weight and obesity is probable.
When it comes to Carb's, I have a rule, step away from "White Carb's" eat whole grain bread's instead of white bread, eat brown rice instead of white rice, eat sweet potatoes and pumpkin instead of white potatoes.
Whole grains are digested more slowly, prompting a more gradual rise in blood sugar, assisting in even energy levels, and provide the body with essential fibre.
Understanding Carbohydrates
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