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Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are a system of complex and simple sugars.

Carbohydrates can also be referred to as saccharides, Carbs, or something else.

Carbs are comprised of Carbon, Oxygen, and Hydrogen. There is usually a Hydrogen to Oxygen ratio of 2:1

Generic Empirical Formula is as follows:  C_m(H₂O)_n  (where m could be different from n). Essentially they are used in being stored as energy, transportation, and several cellular structural.

Chemically they are compounds that are aldehydes or ketones with many or a few additional hydroxyl groups. Nutritionally – carbohydrates are not an essential food source.

All nutrients can be taken from Proteins and Fats. However, this is not always a healthy alternative.

There are 3.75 – 4 kilocalories in 1 gram of carbs – which is very similar to 1 gram of protein. Fats have more than double the kilocalories at 9 per 1 gram.

It has been recommended that daily consumption be between 45%-75% of your energy should be consumed from carbohydrates but only 10% of that should be from sugars [sweets].

Take a look at the Glycemic Index which discusses the effect of certain carbohydrates on blood sugars. It is very important in the control of Diabetes

For consumption it has been argued that some carbohydrates are better than others:

1.) As a food source for More healthy carbohydrates:

–  Whole grains
–  Breads
–  Vegetables
–  Fruits
–  Grains

2.) Reportedly Less healthy sources are

–  White bread
–  White rice
–  Pastries
–  Soda
–  many others

The Carbohydrates (saccharides) are divided into four chemical groupings:

1.)  Monosaccharides

2.)  Disaccharides

3.)  Polysaccharides

4.)  Olgiosaccharides