Question

Describe the recommendations for carbohydrate intake.  Compare and contrast simple versus complex carbohydrates with examples.  We now know carbohydrates are good for you.  Describe what to look for on a food label when choosing the types of carbohydrates that promote health and prevent disease. Stay focused on Carbohydrate (Simple versus Complex), added sugar, and fiber.

(Reminder - initial post should be at least 100-200 words)

COURSE: Essentials of Nutrition

Answer 1

The recommended amount of carbohydrate intake is 225-325 gram of carbohydrate per day.Difference between simple and complex carbohydrate: Simple carbohydrate are simple sugars which immediately gives energy,provide sweet taste and is not much good to health.Its chemical formation is simple made up of only by few chains of carbs.They are added sugars.They are low in nutrients and fibre.Thy increase the blood glucose level immediately.Examples are white sugar,brown sugar,fruit concentrate and corn syrup. Complex carbohydrate are good to health.It is made up of long chain of sugar.It is rich in fiber and nutrients. It takes time to digest.It contains starch. Examples are oat meal, whole brown bread, whole barley and spinach.Good for health is complex carbohydrate because which is high in fiber,starch which makes the individual in satiety feel.It takes time to digest hence transform to energy gradually. Risk of high blood glucose level is low.When looking on food label look for foods high in dietary fiber and avoid food with high added sugar.Foods contain higher added sugar than dietary fiber indicates that calorie is from simple carbohydrate which is not good for health.