Carbohydrates

     Carbohydrates are one of the most widely available types of food energy to humans. Carbohydrates as a whole can be referred to as saccharides or sugars. They consist of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Carbs are considered to be either simple or complex and are a main staple in are everyday diets.

     The three main types of carbs are monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides. Monosaccharides and disaccharides are usually sugars and end in the suffix -ose. Monosaccharides are broken down as much as possible and are the simplest form of carbs, they are the bodies major source for metabolism and are used for short term energy throughout the body. Glucose, ribose, and fructose are all monosaccharides. Disaccharides occur when two monosaccharides are bonded together, this bond is called a glycosidic bond and occurs as a result of a dehydration synthesis reaction. Notable disaccharides include sucrose and lactose, these are used as short term energy in the body. Polysaccharides are the most complex form of saccharides and are mainly used for storage of energy, and structure in plant cell walls. A prime of example of a polysaccharide is cellulose.

     Carbs can be acquired by consuming plenty of different types of foods. These foods include grains, flour, pasta, fruits, vegetables, and potatoes. Humans eat these foods to acquire quick energy, carbs are more easily digested than other macromolecules. Carbs supply humans with dietary fibre, help us to store energy in the form of glycogen, and most importantly supplies our bodies with fuel. Carbs are also able to hurt the human body, simple carbs are broken down into sugars and can affect effect blood sugar levels. The effect on blood sugar levels could cause diabetes and carbs are often associated with weight gain and obesity.

Melinda Morrison speaks on carbs and blood sugar levels

Links:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzWZ1D9zvYs

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