Simple Carbohydrates
By: Jai McHugh
What are Simple Carbohydrates?
<> They contain one or two sugars.
<> They are found in fruits, milk, processed sugar (including white and brown sugars), molasses and honey.
Functions in the Body
<> Digested and Absorbed
<> Provides a short burst of energy
<> Supplying energy to the brain because the brain uses glucose as an energy source.
Major Sources
<> Glucose: sometimes known as blood sugar, sometimes as grape sugar. Nearly all plant foods contain glucose.
<> Maltose: known as malt sugar. Found in grains.
<> Fructose: known as fruit sugar. Most plants contain fructose, especially fruits and saps.
<> Sucrose: commonly known as table sugar, beet sugar, or cane sugar. Sucrose occurs in many fruits and some vegetables.
<> Lactose: commonly known as milk sugar. It is the principal carbohydrate found in milk.
Too Little Or Too Much
Interesting Facts
<> Carbs are easily digested and are broken down into glucose, which the body then uses to do its various tasks.
<> Too many carbs and the body will covert the extra to fat.
<> Its a key fuel source for exercise and sport.
<> All fruit and vegetables, all breads, grains and cereal products are carbohydrates as well as sugars and sugary foods.
Acrostic Poem
Simple carbohydrates contain vitamins and minerals
Insulin and glucagon reacts
Maltose ( found in vegetables)
Processed sugars such as table sugar
Lactose is a natural sugar
Energy-providing nutrients
Carbs are easily digested
All carbs form glucose when digested
Refined sugars such as candy
Bone health improved
Often called "empty calories"
Healthiest to carbs
You shouldn't avoid carbs
Digestive system is improved
Regenerates muscles
Absorbed directly
The body treats carbs differently than fat calories
Eating carbs go straight to your bloodstream
Simple sugars
Candy
Gummy bears are an example of simple carbohydrates.