Carbohydrates are often given a negative connotation. When talking about diets to lose weight, it is often said that it eliminates or reduces the daily amount consumed.
In contrast, the importance of carbohydrates for a balanced diet is rarely mentioned. One of its most important functions is to provide energy to the body, and they also help the proper functioning of brain activity and muscle movement.
What are Carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates, carbohydrates or carbohydrates are organic compounds whose primary function is to provide energy to the brain. But: do you know the varieties of carbohydrates that exist? Not all are equally good for your body! If your goal is to carry out a healthy and balanced diet, read on and note the tips.
Carbohydrates, also called carbohydrates, are biomolecules of three fundamental elements: carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Together with proteins and fats, it is one of the primary nutrients present in food and beverages.
Its most relevant function is to obtain and store the energy required by the body. This task is achieved thanks to an enzyme, amylase, which breaks down this molecule into glucose and uses it as energy for cells, organs, and tissues.
What Foods Have Carbohydrates?
- The foods of daily consumption that contain carbohydrates are:
- Grains and cereals. Present in bread, pasta, crackers, cereals and rice.
- Dairy products. Such as milk and yoghurt.
- Fruit. Among these are apples, oranges, bananas, mangoes and melons.
- Starchy vegetables. Such is the case with potatoes, corn, and peas.
- Sweet. Desserts like cakes and cookies.
- Drinks. For example, fruit juices, sodas, sports drinks, and sugary energy drinks.
What is the Difference Between Simple and Complex Sugars?
Together with proteins and fats, carbohydrates from the three main macronutrients are essential in a balanced diet and must be present in all meals of the day.
To eat a healthy diet, it is essential to be clear about the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates or sugars.
Why are Carbohydrates Essential in our Diet?
Still not clear about the reasons why carbohydrates should be a ‘must’ in your day-to-day diet? We summarize the main reasons:
They provide fewer calories than fat, and they are the fuel for our body and are necessary to feed our brain and other muscles.
They are burned during exercise (they do not accumulate as body fat).
You can follow a diet by substituting starches and whole grains for fats.
Types of Carbohydrates
Their chemical structure can be divided into monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides.
However, depending on the food eaten, they could be classified into:
Sugars are simple and can be added to foods, such as sugar in candy, processed foods, and soft drinks, which are more quickly absorbed by the body.
They also include the types of sugar naturally present in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
Starches These are complex carbohydrates that the body needs to break down into sugars and then use for energy.
These include bread, pasta, cereals, potatoes, peas, and corn.
Fibres These complex carbohydrates are not completely broken down, so foods with fibre help you feel full, such as fruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
