Carbohydrates are a type of nutrient needed to fuel body cells. Carbohydrates, also called carbs, are the most important source of energy for your body, according to Medline Plus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Body cells use carbohydrates as immediate energy and as stored energy for later.
Description
The most basic carbohydrate is a sugar molecule, which joins one or more units of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, reports MayoClinic.com. Other carbs contain several units of this trio of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Your body changes carbs into glucose, or blood sugar. As glucose levels rise in your blood, the pancreas releases insulin, which moves glucose from your blood into cells. At that point, your cells can use glucose to power your body. Extra glucose is stored in your liver, muscles and other cells. If this surplus glucose isn't needed later to fuel your muscles for exercise or to otherwise run your body, it is converted to body fat.
Types
There are three main types of carbohydrates, according to MayoClinic.com. Sugar is the simplest form. Simple carbs are found in table sugar, as well as more nutritious foods such as fruit and milk. Because simple carbs break apart easily in the body, they enter the bloodstream and body cells quickly, providing a fast jolt of energy. Complex carbohydrates, also called starches, are found in grain products, such as breads, crackers, rice and pasta. Complex carbs break apart slowly in your digestive system, sending a steady stream of energy into body cells like a time-release capsule, according to the Franklin Institute. Many complex carbs are also good sources of fiber. Although fiber doesn't provide the cells with energy, it is important for good digestive health.
Function
Glucose fuels all your activities, from moving your muscles during a workout to thinking to breathing. The European Food Information Council notes there is evidence carbs can improve the performance of athletes during intense exercise because they're the main source of energy for muscle cells. Complex carbohydrates also protect against heart disease and diabetes and aid digestive health. Additionally, carbs contribute to the texture, taste and appearance of foods and help make your diet more varied. Glucose is especially important for the brain. Even while you sleep, neurons are busy repairing and restructuring brain components. Neurons cannot store glucose, so your brain cells need a constant supply from the blood.
Considerations
Carbohydrates have a reputation as bad foods, especially when it comes to weight gain, but MayoClinic.com notes not all carbs are bad. Your body needs carbs for energy and good health, but some carbs are better than others. MayoClinic.com recommends choosing your carbs wisely by limiting carbs with added sugars, such as cakes and cookies, and refined grains, such as white rice and white bread. Instead opt for whole grains, such as brown rice and whole-grain bread, and whole fruits and vegetables. These carbs will provide your cells with the energy needed for good health without causing your cells to store too much fat.
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