What exactly is a carbohydrate?

We have talked about why it’s IMPORTANT to eat carbs, but what exactly is a carbohydrate?

(Brace yourself for science class)

A carbohydrate is a biomolecule consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms, usually with a hydrogen–oxygen atom ratio of 2:1 and thus with the empirical formula CmHnO. (Note that this does not mean the H has to be exactly twice as much as the O—it can be slightly more or slightly less, depending on the specific carbohydrate.) Carbohydrates are classified into two main types:

• Simple carbohydrates are short chains of sugar molecules. They are also called monosaccharides or sugars. Examples of simple carbohydrates include glucose, fructose, and sucrose.

• Complex carbohydrates are long chains of sugar molecules. They are also called polysaccharides. Examples of complex carbohydrates include starch, glycogen, and cellulose.

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body. They are broken down into glucose, which is the body's main source of energy. Glucose is used to fuel the brain, muscles, and other organs. It is also stored in the liver and muscles for later use.

Carbohydrates also play a role in other bodily functions, such as:

• Maintaining blood sugar levels. Carbohydrates help to keep blood sugar levels stable by providing a slow release of energy.

• Protecting the body against disease. Carbohydrates help to strengthen the immune system and protect against diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

• Providing fiber. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that is not digested by the body. It helps to keep the digestive system healthy and can help to reduce the risk of constipation.

The specific amount of carbohydrates that you need will vary depending on your age, activity level, and overall health and body composition goals.

It is important to choose healthy sources of carbohydrates when possible. Healthy sources of carbohydrates include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. These foods are high in fiber and other nutrients, and they are less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar levels.

Unhealthy sources of carbohydrates include processed foods, sugary drinks, and white bread. These foods are low in fiber and other nutrients, and they can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.

If you are trying to lose weight or improve your overall health, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough carbohydrates from healthy sources.  You don't have to completely eliminate carbohydrates from processed foods, however, for optimal health and changing your body, getting your carbohydrates from healthy sources is the ultimate goal.