A carbohydrate is a class of biological molecules that includes sugars, starches, and dietary fiber and can provide energy or perform structural and other functions.
Carbohydrates range from simple sugars such as glucose to complex carbohydrates such as starch and fiber. During digestion, many digestible carbohydrates are broken down into simpler sugars that can be absorbed and used by cells.
Carbohydrates are found in foods such as fruits, grains, vegetables, legumes, and many processed foods.
QUICK FACT
Not all carbohydrates affect the body in the same way; fiber, for example, is a carbohydrate that is not fully digested and has important effects on the digestive system.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Glucose: one specific simple sugar, not the entire carbohydrate category.
- Sugar: commonly refers to simple carbohydrates, particularly mono- and disaccharides.
SEE ALSO
