Day 3 Of 9 Knowing Nutrients

Nutrients fall into one of six groups, today I will go over carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates provide the main source of energy for your body.  Glucose, circulating in the blood, is the end product of carbohydrate digestion and is the primary source of energy for most body tissue.  Any blood glucose that is not used immediately for energy or stored in the liver or muscles is converted to fat and stored as body fat.

The two types of carbohydrates are simple and complex.  The digestion process breaks down both types into blood glucose to be used by the body as fuel.
Simple- These occur naturally (fruit, honey, milk) or are processed ( table sugar, corn syrup).  Generally, the foods that contain naturally occurring sugar are more nutrient dense. 
Complex- These are long chains of many simple carbohydrates linked together.  Foods high in complex carbohydrates are bread, rice, pasta, and grains.  Many foods high in complex carbohydrates are also high in fiber.

Two types of fiber

Water soluble- This fiber slows the emptying of food from the stomach, which may help to decrease hunger.  This may also help lower cholesterol levels. Sources include oats, fruits, and beans.

Water insoluble- This fiber speeds the passage of food through the intestines and is essential for proper bowel function.  Sources include wheat bran, fruits and vegetables.

Carbohydrates should make up about half of your calories for the day.  You should try to eat complex carbohydrates.  The recommended level of fiber is 20-24 grams per day for women and 30-38 grams per day for men.