Why Are Carbs Good For Your Body's Health?

The human diet consists primarily of carbohydrates, fats and protein. The balance of these macronutrients is the foundation of good health. Each one plays a specific role in the maintenance of body processes and development. A deficiency will impair proper body function. Good health therefore, is dependent upon adequate nutrition which these macronutrients provide. Carbohydrates are especially important.

About Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are organic compounds the body breaks down to use for energy production. For each 1g of carbohydrates your body breaks down, it releases 4 calories. Calories are a measurement of heat energy, which drives chemical reactions in the body. These reactions, such as metabolism, are essential for life and good health. Carbohydrates are easy for the human body to break down, making them an excellent source of energy.

Types of Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates can be simple or complex. This designation implies how easily the body can break down the nutrient from a chemical perspective. Simple carbs are natural or processed sugars. Natural examples include fruits and juices. Processed sugars include corn syrup and molasses. Starches and fiber are examples of complex carbohydrates. Vegetables, breads and grains are good sources of complex carbs.

Nutritional Information

Americans' primary source of calories is carbohydrates, explains the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion. This fact places added importance on the nutrients in which carbohydrates provide. Carbohydrates are the main source of nutrition for most people. Some vitamins and minerals such as some B vitamins and vitamin C are found primarily in carbohydrate sources. Most B vitamins play a role in red blood cell formation and other life processes, making them essential for good health.

Dietary Recommendations

The USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion recommends 45 to 65 percent of your daily calories come from carbohydrates. In addition, you should also include dietary fiber in your diet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that if you're following a 2,000-calorie diet, you consume 28g of fiber each day. Good sources include brown rice, whole wheat and most fruits.