Carbohydrates The Fuel Machine
Chemical Elements in Carbohydrates Carbon Hydrogen Oxygen
Function Of Carbohydrates 1. To provide energy (most important function) 2. Provide bulk in the diet 3. Provide dietary fiber 4. Assist in the metabolism of fats 5. Spare protein for tissue maintenance
Forms Simple Complex Dietary Fibers
Simple Classifications Monosaccharides Disaccharides Characteristics AKA: Sugars Classifications Monosaccharides Disaccharides Characteristics Water Soluble Occur naturally (fruits, milk, honey) Occur as refined sugars and syrups Any word ending in “ose” is a sugar ex: lactose fructose, glucose, sucrose Too much sugar= weight gain, tooth decay
Complex Classifications Starches Cellulose Fibers Characteristics AKA Starches Classifications Starches Cellulose Fibers Characteristics Insoluble Polysaccharides Found in plants, seeds, roots,& tubers
Dietary Fiber AKA Fiber Classifications 1. Soluble 2.Insoluble Characterstics a. Indigestible b. Provide no calories c. Found only in plant products
Whole Grain Kernel Endosperm Contains Protein needed for gluten Source of refined flour. Low in B complex Vitamins Bran: Outer shell Rich in B Complex Vitamins & Fiber Carbs used for energy Removed in “milling” white flour Wheat Germ: High in B complex Vitamins Capable of sprouting new plant
Fiber Part of plants that our bodies can’t digest Helps promote normal digestion and elimination of wastes. Can lower your risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, diabetes & can lower your cholesterol Bread, Apples, cereal, pasta, whole grain products, rice, oranges, beans.
Advantages of Complex over Simple Carbohydrates 1. Gives a Feeling of Fullness 2. Takes Longer to Digest 3.Adds fiber to the Diet 4. Contains many other nutrients 5. Does not promote tooth decay 6. Reduced spikes in blood sugar levels
Dietary Sources of Sugars Fruit Honey Milk Juices (100% and cocktails) Alcohol Syrups Cakes, cookies, candies Soda Added to many refined foods
Dietary Sources of Starches Cereal Grains (wheat, oats, rice, etc) Pasta Breads Legumes Vegetables Potatoes Anything made with flour
50- 60 % of your daily calories should come from Carbs