Carbohydrates are what fuels the body. These are broken down by the digestive system into simple sugars that are small enough in order to be absorbed into the bloodstream. These sugars are then utilized by the body for fuel, allowing a person to be energetic and perform a number of activities.
Foods Rich in Carbohydrates
There are a lot of food which are rich sources of carbohydrates. The most common source of carbohydrates are bread products. Fruits, grains, milk, potatoes, and some vegetables are also good sources of carbohydrates. Other forms that are sources of carbohydrates are fibers, starches and sugars.
Carbohydrates that need to be Taken In at the Minimum
Although carbohydrates are a good thing, it does not mean that one should consume carbohydrate-rich foods in large amounts. There are those that contain a lot of calories even in just a small serving. For instance, a seven ounce pack of chips can contain almost a thousand calories, which is more than the required amount of calories a person should consume every day. Basically, all types of food that are considered as “junk” should be eaten in minimal amounts. They often contribute very little to one’s nutritional well being.
More About Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates that are best for the body are those that are from foods in their most natural state; not those which have undergone a lot of processing. This is because the more natural or organic the food source is, the greater its nutrient content. Processing takes a lot of the nutrients out of the food. Thus, foods that have been naturally grown or are organic are the ideal sources of carbohydrates. Examples of these often organic foods include fruits and vegetables(these are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C and E, potassium and folate), whole grains (rich in fiber, vitamin B and protein), legumes (rich in potassium, folate, fiber and minerals) and dairy (rich in calcium, riboflavin, protein and vitamin D).
Not Having Enough Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are the most ideal energy source for the body. Not having enough of this in the body will make the system convert fat and dietary protein to glucose (sugar). This can become a problem later on, especially if the glycogen storage has been depleted. When the body doesn’t receive enough carbohydrates, it will burn fat for energy. After the fact is depleted, it goes into starvation mode and the body will begin to break down muscle and other tissue. Dieters often hit a ‘plateau’ where the intake of carbohydrates and energy needs are equal, and the dieter no longer looses weight. Dieters who do not take in enough carbohydrates may end up doing their bodies more harm than good.
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