Carbohydrates are the amplest macromolecules on the earth. They consist of carbon dioxide, water, and glucose. Photosynthesis converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and starch, both of which are carbohydrates. In addition to providing energy for organisms, carbohydrates are crucial structural elements in living things. They also make up a portion of the nucleic acids, which carry genetic information.
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Types of Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are of three types:
Sugars-Simple carbs found in desserts, processed foods, and ordinary soda. They also occur naturally in fruits, vegetables, and milk.
Starches-Complex carbohydrates are made up of several simple sugars connected. Our body breaks carbohydrates into sugars to convert them to energy. Starches are found in bread, pasta, cereals, and in vegetables like corn, potatoes.
Fibres-Also a kind of complex carbohydrate most fibres cannot be broken down by the body, having fibre-rich meals will help our body provide additional health benefits. Fibres help in reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Fibre is found in various plant-based foods, fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains.
The healthiest forms of carbohydrates include – whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes that have not been processed or have had little processing—promote excellent health by supplying vitamins, minerals, fiber, and a variety of significant phytonutrients to the body.
Carbohydrates are important macromolecules primarily used for energy production. With a balanced healthy diet, we can have a healthy body and at the same time we can have a healthy mind. One must include a recommended daily dose of carbs, protein, and fats to stay healthy and away from various diseases like cancer,diabetes,obesity etc.
