Introduction To Carbohydrates

Introduction to
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a class of macronutrients that play a crucial role in
providing the body with energy. They are composed of carbon,
hydrogen, and oxygen atoms and come in various forms, from simple
sugars to complex starches and fibers.
by Sai Dinesh
Types of Carbohydrates
Simple Carbohydrates Complex Carbohydrates
Also known as sugars, these are the most These include starches and dietary fibers.
basic form of carbohydrates. They are They take longer to digest, providing
quickly absorbed and provide a rapid energy sustained energy and promoting digestive
boost. health.
Monosaccharides Polysaccharides
The smallest and most basic units of Large, complex carbohydrates made up of
carbohydrates, such as glucose, fructose, many monosaccharides, including starch,
and galactose. glycogen, and cellulose.
Simple Carbohydrates (Sugars)
Monosaccharides Disaccharides Natural Sweeteners

The simplest form of Disaccharides like sucrose Natural sweeteners like honey,
carbohydrates, (table sugar), lactose, and maple syrup, and agave nectar
monosaccharides like glucose maltose are composed of two provide simple carbohydrates
and fructose, are easily monosaccharides bonded along with additional nutrients,
digested and absorbed by the together and are also readily making them healthier
body to provide immediate available sources of energy. alternatives to refined sugars.
energy.
Complex Carbohydrates
(Starches and Fibers)
Complex carbohydrates, such as starches and dietary fibers, are larger
and more intricate molecules compared to simple sugars. They are found
in whole grains, legumes, potatoes, and other plant-based foods.
Starches are the storage form of carbohydrates in plants and provide a

slow-burning, sustained source of energy. Dietary fibers, on the other
hand, are the indigestible parts of plant-based foods that promote
digestive health and feelings of fullness.
Carbohydrates and Energy
Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy. When we consume carbohydrates, they are
broken down into glucose, which is then used by our cells to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP),
the currency of energy in the body.
Carbohydrates Fats Proteins
The pie chart illustrates the typical distribution of energy sources, with carbohydrates providing the
largest share at 45% of total energy intake.
Carbohydrates and Digestion
Digestion Begins 1
When you consume carbohydrates, the
digestive process begins in your
mouth. Salivary enzymes start 2 Small Intestine
breaking down the starches into The small intestine is where most
smaller sugar molecules. carbohydrate digestion and
absorption occurs. Enzymes secreted
by the pancreas and intestine continue
Absorption 3 breaking down carbs.
The simple sugars created during
digestion are absorbed through the
small intestine wall and into the
bloodstream. This provides a readily
available source of energy for the
body.
Carbohydrates and Nutrition
Nutrition Guidelines Nutrient Composition Whole Grains

Carbohydrates are an essential Carbohydrates provide energy, Choosing whole grain
part of a balanced diet, with fiber, and important vitamins carbohydrates like whole
guidelines recommending they and minerals. Understanding wheat, brown rice, and oats
make up 45-65% of total their role in a healthy diet is provides more fiber and
caloric intake. key. nutrients than refined options.
Carbohydrates and Health
1 Blood Sugar Regulation 2 Heart Health

Carbohydrates play a crucial role in Certain types of carbohydrates, like fiber-
maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. rich whole grains, can help lower
Balancing carbohydrate intake is essential cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart
for managing conditions like diabetes and disease.
preventing energy crashes.
3 Gut Health 4 Weight Management

Complex carbohydrates, such as dietary Carbohydrate intake can impact weight
fiber, feed the beneficial bacteria in the management. Choosing high-fiber,
gut, promoting a healthy microbiome and nutrient-dense carbohydrates can help
improving digestive function. promote feelings of fullness and support
weight loss or maintenance.
Recommended Carbohydrate Intake
45-65% 130g 25g

Recommended Intake Minimum Intake Fiber Intake
The recommended intake of The minimum recommended Adults should aim for at least
carbohydrates is 45-65% of carbohydrate intake is 130 25 grams of dietary fiber per
total daily calories for most grams per day to prevent day from carbohydrate-rich
healthy adults. ketosis and provide adequate foods.
energy for the brain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, carbohydrates play a vital role in our overall health and
nutrition. By understanding the different types of carbohydrates, their
functions, and their impact on our bodies, we can make informed
choices to maintain a balanced diet and optimize our energy levels and
overall well-being.

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Introduction to

Monosaccharides Disaccharides Natural Sweeteners

Starches are the storage form of carbohydrates in plants and provide a

Carbohydrates Fats Proteins

Nutrition Guidelines Nutrient Composition Whole Grains

1 Blood Sugar Regulation 2 Heart Health

3 Gut Health 4 Weight Management

45-65% 130g 25g

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