Carbohydrates
There are two different types of carbohydrates. They are simple sugars and complex carbohydrates. Both types are capable of providing energy to the body.
Complex carbohydrates take longer to be broken down by the body, keeping you full up for longer and providing your body with slow release energy. Complex carbohydrates are classified as having a lower glycemic index, referring to a slower release of sugars into the blood stream.
Simple sugars have a high glycemic index as the sugars are released rapidly into the blood stream. Large quantities of simple sugars can cause increases in blood sugar levels and hence sugar cravings can follow a large intake of simple sugar.
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The primary role of carbohydrates within the human body is to provide energy to the cells of the body. Most cells use both carbohydrates and fats for energy, but the brain and the central nervous system (CNS) are only capable of using carbohydrates for fuel.
Some sources of carbohydrates are as follows:
Simple sugars - sugar, jam, honey, confectionery
Complex carbohydrates - cereals, bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, vegetables
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