Carbohydrates are one of the essential components that are needed for the normal functioning of the body. The main sources of carbohydrates are, of course, plant foods.
More than 50% of the body's energy comes from carbohydrates, the rest is provided by proteins and fats.
Carbohydrates are classified into simple and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates - monosaccharides include glucose and fructose, slightly more complex - disaccharides - lactose and sucrose. These are sugar-like carbohydrates.
Monosaccharides and disaccharides are found in all fruits, especially bananas, honey, berries, they are very quickly absorbed by the body and give it a huge amount of energy. However, this energy must necessarily be expended, otherwise the rise in blood sugar can adversely affect health.
The consumption of "fast" carbohydrates should be accompanied by appropriate physical activity, and people suffering from obesity and diabetes, it is better to reduce their amount in the diet.
Starch-rich complex carbohydrates - polysaccharides - are absorbed more slowly by the body, but blood sugar levels remain at the same level, so they are considered more useful. They are found in cereals, vegetables, legumes.
In addition to the huge amount of energy that carbohydrates provide, minerals and vitamins, for example, fiber and pectins, enter the body along with them, which help to normalize cholesterol, remove toxins and toxins, prevent food stagnation, and have a beneficial effect on the intestines.
The most important function of carbohydrates is the accumulation of glycogen in the muscles and liver, a substance similar to plant starch. With a large expenditure of energy, strong physical exertion, glycogen is mobilized and converted into glucose necessary for the body.
