Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates (carbohydrates, sugars, i.e. organic compounds) are the primary source of energy in our body, where they are stored as glycogen, whether in the liver or muscles.

At the molecular level, all carbohydrates are just chains of simple sugars. In order for our body to be able to use energy from them, it must first divide them into individual sugars by the process of digestion. Depending on the molecular structure of the individual carbohydrates, the digestion process can take place quickly or slowly. The rate of this digestion process is measured by the glycaemic index.

• Lack of carbohydrates in the daily diet can cause energy loss during the day and lack of strength.

• However, an excess of carbohydrates in the diet is more serious than a lack of them. If we do not lose the energy received from carbohydrates, it is converted into simple sugars, which are further converted into fat, which accumulates in the body as a supply of energy. The result, however, is unsightly overweight.