Starches: Complex Carbohydrates

Complex Carbohydrates are rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients like protein.

It is found in breads, cereals, tubers (potatoes, yams), corn, legumes (peas and dried beans), pasta, rice, and grain products.

Simple Sugars

Simple sugars are broken down to glucose by the body for energy.

Glucose is usually the sole energy source for the brain and nervous system.

Examples of simple sugars include table sugar, brown sugar, fruit sugar, milk sugar, corn syrup, maple syrup and honey.

Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber is found in complex carbohydrates that cannot be digested by the human digestive tract.

Examples of fiber includes cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, and gum.

Some soluble fibers are digestible by bacteria in the large intestine.

A high fiber diet with adequate water intake prevents constipation and may reduce risk of heart disease