Carbohydrates are nutrients that provide energy to our body. It is in the macronutrient class such as protein and fats. Carbohydrates are divided into two: simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. In other words, simple sugar and complex sugar. In our content, we will talk about what these types of carbohydrates are and their examples.

Today, many people avoid carbohydrate consumption. In fact, when we choose the right type of carbohydrate, we have nothing to be afraid of. Carbohydrates are not only included in foods such as bread and pasta. Dairy products, grains, vegetables also contain carbohydrates. So which food contains which type of carbohydrate?

Simple carbohydrates

These carbohydrates, also called simple sugars, can be briefly called monosaccharides (glucose, fructose, galactose) and disaccharides (sucrose, lactose, maltose). Their digestion is fast. So it mixes with the blood quickly. Therefore, sudden changes in blood sugar are observed. Therefore, simple sugars have high glycemic index values.

Which foods contain simple carbohydrates?

Examples include sugar, honey, molasses, cakes, jams, corn syrup, glucose syrup and foods containing them. Similarly, carbohydrates in fruit and milk are simple carbohydrates. But when these foods are consumed in their unrefined form, they contain fiber, vitamins and minerals in addition to simple sugar. That’s why it’s important.

Complex carbohydrates

Carbohydrates called polysaccharides are in this group. In other words, foods containing starch, glycogen, dietary fiber. These types of carbohydrates are slow to digest. That’s why they increase blood sugar regularly. In addition, such carbohydrates help us in weight control. Because foods containing complex carbohydrates can keep you full for a long time.

Which foods contain complex carbohydrates?

Cereals, vegetables, legumes are the foods in this group. Starch and fiber can be found in the same food. Although starch is also included in complex carbohydrates, fibrous foods should be preferred more. Because fiber is an important component for our gut health.

Which should we consume?

If simple carbohydrates are the main sources of our diet, they can cause problems such as dental caries, diabetes, obesity, heart diseases. In addition, we have health benefits from service departments. Creating a diet heavy on complex carbohydrates can benefit us in the long run.