Patient Information
Nutrition and Diet: Carbohydrates
More nutrition information can be found
at the American Dietetic Association and
MUSC Nutrition Services web sites.
Carbohydrates are a group of compounds that include starch, cellulose and sugars which provide the body with energy. Carbohydrates may be large and complex or small and simple. Complex carbohydrates are found predominantly in cereals, rice, pasta, fruits, vegetables and milk. Simple, refined sugars such as glucose are also found in candies, cookies and pastries.
Complex carbohydrates provide Calories (energy) and are also rich sources of vitamins and minerals. In contrast, refined sugars provide energy but do not provide significant quantities of minerals or vitamins. Carbohydrates are broken down by enzymes such as amylase in the upper part of the gut and are absorbed in the small intestine.
Doctors recommend that carbohydrates should provide 50-55% of our total daily energy intake. Complex and naturally occurring sugars are especially recommended, but refined sugars should be limited since they provide minimal nutritional benefits. Excessive intake of carbohydrates can lead to obesity, since each gram of carbohydrate contains approximately four Calories of energy. Conversely, deficient intake may lead to malnutrition.