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Carbohydrates   

Overview | Recommendations | Side Effects | Food Sources

Alternative names:

Starches; Simple sugars; Sugars; Complex carbohydrates; Diet - carbohydrates; Simple carbohydrates

Definition:

A large group of sugars, starches, celluloses, and gums that contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in similar proportions.

Functions

The primary function of carbohydrates is to provide energy for the body, especially the brain and the nervous system. The body breaks down starches and sugars into a substance called glucose, which is used for energy by the body.

Ency. home > Nutrition > C > Carbohydrates

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