Simple Carbohydrates vs Complex Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients, alongside protein and fats the body needs to function properly. They’re the body’s preferred source of energy.— while we burn fat and protein for energy, the body prefers carbohydrates for fueling basic metabolic functions. Carbohydrates can be broken down into different groups based on their structure – and how they are utilized in the body. Carbohydrates are usually categorized as either simple or complex. This article explains the difference between the two types, their benefits, and which foods are sources of each type.

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What are carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are one of the primary sources of glucose, which the body uses for energy. Foods high in carbohydrates typically contain high levels of starch, fiber, and sugars — these nutrients have different chemical structures and are processed by the body in different ways.¹

Complex carbohydrates are nutritionally dense and typically contain higher levels of fiber and starch. Because of this they often take longer to digest. Foods higher in sugar digest more quickly, and are classified as simple carbs.

What are simple carbohydrates?

Simple carbs are also known as sugars, and include glucose, dextrose, and lactose. They digest quickly and can be used for energy or stored in the liver or muscles for future use. Because they can be easily converted into glucose, they’re considered “high GI (glycaemic index)” carbs. While you may think of sugars as added for flavor and sweetness, sugars also occur naturally in foods,: such as fructose in fruit or lactose in milk.