Carbohydrates are an important part of our diets. Our bodies do need them in the diet to be healthy. However some carbohydrates are worse than others. They turn into complex and simple carbohydrates along with starches. They can also be separated into groups based on Glycemic index. This mainly lists a level at what blood sugar rises to after consuming carbohydrates. If you want more information on this subject, then take a look at the fascinating facts about carbohydrates listed below.
Use of Carbohydrates in the Body
Carbohydrates are used by the body as a main source of energy. They can quickly be broken down into glucose which the body uses for numerous functions. Protein is more difficult to digest for example and is needed for cell and tissue building in the body. Most of your calories in a daily diet should come from carbohydrates.
Amount of Carbohydrates in Diet
Diets should include carbohydrates in them. A healthy diet should be at least 65 percent of the calories. This translates into 325 grams for a 2000 calorie diet. The percentages will vary according to the caloric intake that your diet will specify.
Glycemic Index and Diet
There are different foods that can be eaten. Each one is part of a Glycemic Index. Eating foods with a low GI is considered ideal for a healthy diet. Here are some foods according to listing. Low GI includes peaches, pumpernickel bread and soybeans. Moderate GI includes ice cream, sourdough bread, bananas and pineapples. High GI is white bread, carrots, waffles and watermelon. Many different foods are included in each full listing for the GI.
Classifications of Carbohydrates
In truth, there are three designations of carbohydrates. Simple, complex and starch are the classifications. In truth, there is no significant difference between complex and simple carbohydrates. In fact, complex and simple carbohydrates are considered part of a healthy diet. Highly processed carbohydrates are considered to be unhealthy. These can include but are not limited to pastries, sugar, white rice, potato or corn chips, candy and soft drinks. They can cause a lot of health problems if eaten in excess.
