Chapter 2 Carbohydrates Overview

Nutrition

Carbohydrates

Organic compounds consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, primarily serving as an energy source for the body.

Monosaccharides

Simplest form of carbohydrates, consisting of single sugar units, such as glucose, fructose, and galactose.

Disaccharides

Carbohydrates made up of two monosaccharide units, such as sucrose, lactose, and maltose.

Polysaccharides

Complex carbohydrates composed of many monosaccharide units, such as starch, glycogen, and dietary fiber.

Dietary Fiber

Indigestible carbohydrates that play important roles in maintaining health, including promoting digestive health and preventing disease.

Soluble Fiber

A type of dietary fiber that dissolves in water and can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels.

Insoluble Fiber

A type of dietary fiber that does not dissolve in water and helps add bulk to the diet, promoting regular bowel movements.

Glycogen

The storage form of glucose in animals, primarily found in the liver and skeletal muscles.

Recommended Daily Fiber Intake (men 19-50)

38 grams per day.

Recommended Daily Fiber Intake (women 19-50)

25 grams per day.

Amylase

An enzyme that helps to break down starch into sugars during digestion.

Nutrition Guidelines

Recommendations stating that 45% to 65% of a diet should consist of carbohydrates.

Whole Grains

Grains that contain all parts of the grain kernel, providing more fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains.

Sugar Alcohols

A type of nutritive sweetener that provides fewer calories than regular sugar, such as sorbitol and xylitol.

Added Sugars

Sugars that are added to foods during processing, which can lead to empty calories and should be limited in the diet.

Cellulose

A major component of plant cell walls that contributes to dietary fiber and helps maintain healthy digestion.

Lignin

A non-carbohydrate component of dietary fiber, contributing to the structure of plant cell walls.

Starches

The most significant type of polysaccharides found in foods, serving as a key source of energy.