Carbohydrates
By: Selah, Penny, Allie, Cassidy, and Laz
Definition/Function

Carbohydrates- the sugars, starches, and fibers found in
fruits, grains, vegetables, and milk products.

Function:

To Provide Energy (They are the body's main source of
fuel)

Needed for physical activity

Brain Function

Operation of the organs

Prevent protein from being used as an energy source
Different types of carbs

Simple Carbs- Composed of simple sugar molecules or two grouped
sugar molecules. These carbs include Glucose, Fructose, Galactose,
and Ribose.

Complex Carbs- Carbohydrates made up of sugar molecules strung
together like a coil, that are also rich in fiber.

Fiber- Dietary material containing substances such as cellulose,
lignin, and pectin, which are resistant to the action of digestive
enzymes.

Starches- It is a polysaccharide that functions as a carbohydrate store
and is an important constituent of the human diet.
Positive Qualities

Complex Carbs prevent weight gain—and even
promote weight loss.

They are good for your heart.

Complex Carbs give your body energy.

They keep our sugar and glucose levels stable in
our blood.
Negative Qualities

Weight Gain- Simple carbs can cause your levels of blood
sugar to go up and down which can lead to weight gain

Insulin Resistance- Muscle, fat, and cannot absorb glucose
from the blood stream.

Nutrient Deficiencies- The body does not absorb the
amount of the essential nutrients needed to function.

Diabetes- Too much carbs means too much sugar which
can lead to insulin resistance and ultimately diabetes.
Myths and Facts About Carbs

Myth- Carbs are bad for you

Fact- Some carbs are good and necessary to be healthy

Myth- Carbs make you fat

Fact- Carbs help maintain weight in the long run

Myth- Avoid carbs after training

Fact- Unrefined carbs are necessary post workout
Healthy carbs

Starchy vegetables (potatoes, corn)

Fruits (apples, bananas)

Legumes (lentils, kidney beans, peas)

Nuts (almonds, peanuts)

Seeds (chia, pumpkin)

Grains (bread, rice)
Sources
http://www.nutritionmd.org/nutrition_tips/nutrition_tips_understand_foods/car
bs_versus.html
https://authoritynutrition.com/good-carbs-bad-carbs/
http://www.onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/myths-and-facts-aboutcarbohydrates-and-your-health/
http://www.livescience.com/51976-carbohydrates.html
http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/role-carbohydrates-6560.html
http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/carbohydrate.html
http://www.livestrong.com/article/501306-the-negative-effects-of-overeatingcarbohydrates/
http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/weight_loss_diet_plans/diet_exerc
ise_tips/6_reasons_you_should_be_eating_carbs?page=6