Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates also referred to as ‘carbs’ or CHO’s can be broken
down into two categories: simple sugars and complex carbohydrates.

Simple Sugars: These carbohydrates, known as monosaccharides
consist foods which can be easily converted into a carbohydrates most
simple form - glucose. Glucose can be used to supply fast acting,
short term energy to the body. Excellent sources of simple sugars
include honey, fruits, vegetables and berries.

Complex Carbohydrates: These carbohydrates, known as
polysaccharides are made up of a combination of long chains of
saccharides. These carbohydrates are excellent sources of energy
which are broken down more slowly by the body and thus supply a
longer lasting source of energy. Excellent sources of complex
carbohydrates include bread, rice, pasta as well as crackers and
potatoes.

Carbohydrates supply the body with 4 calories of energy per gram.
Carbohydrates are very efficient source of energy during exercise because they can be stored as glycogen directly in the working muscle. Ever wondered about a list of low carbohydrate foods?

Many endurance athletes use a process called ‘carbo loading’ in an attempt to increase their carbohydrate reserves before a race. This practice involves dramatically increasing the proportion of carbohydrates in the diet during the few days immediately preceding the event. This process is thought to raise levels of stored glycogen thus enhancing its availability in competition.

The Science Behind Whole Grain Carbohydrates