When carbohydrates are digested and broken down by the body they are converted into glucose, which is then used or stored as energy What is the function of carbohydrates? Carbohydrates provide the body with a source of fuel and energy that is necessary to carry out daily activities and exercise What are carbohydrates? Carbohydrates: The body’s main source is starches and sugars. Found mainly in plant sources such as fruits, vegetables, grain products and dried beans and peas Types of carbohydrates: 1) Complex carbohydrates are broken down into 2 sub categories; starches and dietary fibre found in dry beans, peas and lentils.
Vegetables, like potatoes and corn, as well as grain products, such as rice, pasta and breads. 2) Simple carbohydrates, or sugars are a natural part of many foods. These can be found in fruit, grains and dairy products. How much do we need? Studies show that we should get half of our energy from carbohydrates, with at least one third of our diet consisting of starchy carbohydrates. Canada’s food guide suggests that an average teen requires at least 7-8 servings of carbohydrates, therefore these can be consumed in the form of 4 servings of vegetables and fruit and 4 servings of grain products.
