Despite knowing that carbohydrates are good for us in our own right, many people still don't know what they are. I have compiled some information below for your reference!

What do carbohydrates mean

Carbohydrates are mainly made up of three elements, carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, and since the ratio of hydrogen and oxygen it contains is 2:1, the same as that of water, it is, therefore, known as a carbohydrate. It is one of the main nutrients that provide heat energy to the body.

The main source from which people absorb carbohydrates is food. Carbohydrates in food, on the other hand, are divided into two types: effective carbohydrates that people can absorb and utilize, and ineffective carbohydrates that people cannot digest.

The role of carbohydrates

Providing calories: Sugars are the main source of calories, and carbohydrates are the main nutrients that provide calories. The provision of energy is characterized by fast and timely, and the end products of oxidation are carbon dioxide and water, which are not harmful to the organism.

Maintaining muscle: When there is not enough glucose from carbohydrates, muscle can also be broken down into amino acids, which are converted into glucose or other substances to produce energy. So, consuming the right amount of carbohydrates in your diet can prevent muscle loss and keep your muscles.

Promotes digestive health: Carbohydrates can pass through the intestines undigested, breaking down into two fiber types: soluble and insoluble. These two substances, however, can relieve constipation and promote digestive peristalsis.

Impact on heart health and diabetes: excessive intake of carbohydrates in the body can be harmful to the heart and increase the risk of diabetes. So learn to control the intake of carbohydrates in your diet as well.

Difference between carbohydrates and sugar

Many people think that there is no difference between carbohydrates and sugar, but in fact, the two can not be equated. It can be said that it is a containment relationship, carbohydrates are contained sugar. Generally we will divide carbohydrates into monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides and other types.

But purely from the point of view of calories, simple sugars and carbohydrates are no difference, after ingesting the body, will be hydrolyzed into glucose, but they bring a sense of satiety, the speed of digestion and absorption and the impact on blood sugar is different. They also produce different values from a health perspective.