Carbohydrates Explained

We have all heard of the low carb diet rage. But, what exactly are carbohydrates and what do they do for your body? In essence, carbohydrates are our body’s energy source. They are found in many foods including breads, pastas, cakes, grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

The chemical composition of carbs is made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They include one or more simple sugars in their make-up.

The types of sugars in carbohydrates are:

~ Monosaccharides: 1 Molecule sugars found in glucose (blood sugar), fructose (fruit sugar), and galactose (mainly in milk)

~ Disaccharides: 2 monosaccharides linked together as in sucrose (table sugar), lactose (milk sugar), and maltose (malt sugar)

~ Polysaccharides are the king of the bunch. They are complex carbohydrates which are comprised of simple sugars linked together in different ways.

Complex carbohydrates are what your body thrives on. They are assimilated slowly so have a lower effect on blood sugar and give a more steady stream of energy. They provide a variety of nutrients and are less processed than other types of carbs. A healthy diet always includes these.

In order to provide your body with the complex carbohydrates it needs to give you energy, there are a few key points to remember:

~ Buy organic whenever possible

~ Eat whole grains

~ Keep the skin on whenever possible on your vegetables & fruits

~ Avoid refined, simple sugars such as cakes, cookies, etc

~ That goes for refined complex carbs as well, such as white breads, flours, and chips

Your body needs complex carbohydrates. It receives vitamins, minerals, as well as fiber from the correct intake. If you want to live healthier, run out and get yourself some fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, and start giving your body what it is begging for! Melissa Possehl would like to give you more Healthy Living Tips. To take her up on her offer, come check out her blog at Your Holistic Life. Live Well!