Carbohydrate Requirement of the Body
Although the body can also obtain energy from fats and proteins, these nutrients must first be converted into a form that the body can use. Complexes of simple carbohydrates are distinguished, which have different effects on blood sugar metabolism. The more complex a carbohydrate is, the slower the blood sugar rises because our body is initially occupied with gradually breaking down this carbohydrate into individual building blocks, glucose. Only they can be transported into the cells with the help of insulin. All carbohydrates consist of the same chemical components: carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
If the carbohydrate requirement is met, the body converts the rest into fat. There are two types of carbohydrates - starch (high molecular weight, poorly soluble) and sugar (low molecular weight, easily soluble). While both groups are digestible in the body, other carbohydrates such as cellulose are indigestible or not usable.
The Carbohydrate Starch
Starch is a complex carbohydrate consisting of long chains of individual glucose building blocks. These must first be broken down before the body can use them. Starch can only be absorbed by the body if it has been split into its components in the mouth, but mainly in the intestines. People rarely consume starch in pure form, but usually in foods that contain other nutrients as well, such as grains. Starchy foods like potatoes, rice, bread, pasta, corn, and dried legumes provide not only carbohydrates but also dietary fiber, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
There are different types of sugars. One distinguishes between milk sugar, fruit sugar, table sugar (sucrose), and grape sugar. Milk sugar is found in dairy products and raises blood sugar more slowly because it is packaged with fat and protein. Fruit sugar is found in fruits and also enters the bloodstream more slowly. Table sugar is used for sweetening in crystalline form and can be found in honey, fruits, and juices. This enjoyment leads to a rapid increase in blood sugar. Grape sugar is pure glucose and immediately enters the bloodstream.