Be active for life! Summary Carbohydrates are so called because they contain carbon with hydrogen and oxygen in the same proportion as in water ( : ). The general formula is C n H 2n O n . Carbohydrates are classified according to the number of saccharide (sugar) groups present.
They are broadly classified as simple carbohydrates(sugars) and complex carbohydrates(sugars). - - Carbohydrates and Energy The simple carbohydrates include monosaccharides (Singlesugar) and disaccharides (Doublesugars).Complex carbohydrates include starch, glycogen and fibers. The major monosaccharides are glucose, fructose and galactose. The disaccharides of nutritional importance are sucrose, maltose and lactose.
The complex carbohydrates include starch, dextrin and glycogen. The principle function of carbohydrates is to serve as a major source of energy for the body. The important sources of carbohydrates in the diets of children and adults are cereals, millets, roots, tubers, pulses, sugar and jaggery, while milk and sugar are important sources in the diets of infants. The percentage of calories derived from carbohydrates in diets consumed by a vast majority of people in the developing countries is as high as – %.
Dietary fiber is defined as that portion of plant material ingested in the diet that is resistant to digestion by gastro intestinal secretions. Glossary Terms Meaning Detoxification It is the physiological or medicinal removal of toxic substances from a living organism, including the human body, which is mainly carried out by the liver. Hemorrhoids They are swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. Irritable bowel syndrome(IBS) It is a group of symptoms—including abdominal pain and changes in the pattern of bowel movements without any evidence of underlying damage.
Lean body mass (LBM) It is a component of body composition calculated by subtracting body fat weight from total body weight. Osteoporosis It is a condition of fragile bone with an increased susceptibility to fracture. The healthiest sources of carbohydrates— unprocessed or minimally processed whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans—promote good health by delivering vitamins, minerals, fiber and a host of important phytonutrients.