Glucose or sugar processed from carbohydrates serves as a fuel that will be used by the body. The main benefits of carbohydrates are as a source of energy for the body to carry out various functions, as well as to perform various activities every day.
Carbohydrates can be divided into two types, simple and complex. The two types of carbohydrates differ in their chemical structure. In general, simple carbohydrates only contain basic sugars that are easily digested and absorbed by the body. Meanwhile, complex carbohydrates have a longer sugar chain. So it takes a long time to digest and absorb this type of carbohydrate. Natural carbohydrate sources are easy to find, namely in the form of grains, seeds, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and milk.
Types of Carbohydrates
There are three macronutrients, namely nutrients that are both present in some of the foods we consume. One of the three macronutrients is carbohydrate. Two other macronutrients are fat and protein.-
Carbohydrates consist of three types, namely:
Starch
Starch is a carbohydrate found in foods derived from plants. For example, grains, vegetables, and nuts. Starchy foods, such as pasta and bread, also include starch.
Fiber
Fiber is also found in foods derived from plants. Wheat bread, beans, and some vegetables eaten with the skin are good sources of fiber.
Sugar
Not all carbohydrates are sugar, but all sugars are carbohydrates. Sugar can be obtained naturally from a variety of foods. The sugar found in fruit is called fructose, sugar in milk is called lactose, and sugar is called sucrose. In the process of making cakes, chocolate, and candy, sucrose is usually added as a sweetener.
Benefits of Carbohydrates for the Body
Energy sources
When you breathe, move, walk, think, or do other activities such as exercise, your body needs energy. This energy is obtained from carbohydrates that are digested and processed into glucose. After that, insulin will help glucose absorbed by body cells. From this the body gets energy.
Meet the calorie needs in a healthy manner
In meeting calorie needs, you must pay attention to eating portions so as not to overeat to make the body excess calories. Calories derived from a number of carbohydrates less than fat with the same amount of weight. Your body's calorie consumption will be better if the carbohydrate source you choose has high levels of fiber, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and beans. 45-65 percent of the recommended body calories come from carbohydrates.
Reducing the risk of disease
The benefits of consuming carbohydrates sourced from nuts and vegetables can reduce the risk of disease. Fiber in these carbohydrates can reduce the risk of constipation. Intestinal health can also be improved thanks to the benefits of carbohydrates. In fact, research has proven that some types of fiber can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. In addition, although not yet fully proven, several studies have shown a reduced risk of obesity and diabetes by consuming high-fiber grains and carbohydrates.
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