Carbohydrates are your body's fuel source. Complex carbs contain dietary fiber that helps control blood sugar, maintain bowel regularity and lower blood cholesterol levels according to MayoClinic.com. Even though some carbs do not have a sweet taste, they still turn to sugar when you consume them. Simple carbs cause this to happen at a fast pace, and complex carbs do not.
Fruits
Fruits are carbohydrates that are also high in sugar, but it is natural sugar. In addition to their carb content, fruits are also low in fat, low in protein and high in vitamins, water content and fiber. Apples, peaches, pears, grapes, oranges, grapefruits and cherries are examples. With the exception of avocados, fruits have almost no fat.
Vegetables
Vegetables are similar to fruits in their high water and vitamin contents, but they range in carb content. For example, select vegetables like potatoes, yams, sweet potatoes, corn, turnips and squash are high in carbs. Greens, celery, cucumbers and sprouts are all low in carbs. All forms of vegetables are low in fat.
Legumes
Beans and peas, which are also known as legumes, are carbohydrates that are also high in protein, iron and fiber, and low in fat. Legumes have seeds that are protected by an exterior pod. Kidney beans, lentils, white beans, chickpeas, mung beans and lima beans are examples of beans.
Pasta
Pasta is a carbohydrate made from semolina wheat. Other forms of pasta exist as well, such as quinoa pasta, corn pasta and whole grain pasta. All forms have moderate amounts of protein and fiber, and they are low in fat.
Grains
Grains such as oatmeal, quinoa, barley, millet, buckwheat and oat bran are all carbohydrate foods. They are also low in fat, high in fiber and have a moderate amount of protein.
Grain Products
Products that derive from grains are carbohydrates, such as bread, bagels, buns, rolls, cereal, pitas and wraps. The whole grain varieties are higher in fiber than the processed versions, and they are all low in fat. Processed cereals have added sugar and they are low in fiber so they are considered simple carbs.
Candy
All forms of candy are high in sugar, and they are simple carbohydrates. This includes candy bars, hard candies and soft candies. They are also low in fiber and protein.
Ice Cream
Ice cream is a simple carb that is high in sugar and fat. It also has a high amount of calcium and a moderate amount of protein.
Jam
Jams and jellies are either made from 100 percent fruit or they are processed. Both versions contain carbs and sugar, but the natural versions also tend to be higher in fiber.
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