There are two types of carbohydrate: complex and simple.
Complex carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates are often referred to as starch or starchy foods. They are found naturally in foods and also refined in processed foods.
Complex carbohydrates as natural starches are found in:
bananas
barley
beans
Complex carbohydrates as refined starches are found in:
biscuits, pastries and cakes
pizzas
sugary processed breakfast cereals
white bread
Simple carbohydrates
Simple carbohydrates are also known as sugars. They also exist in either a natural or refined form. Natural sugars are found in fruit and vegetables. Refined sugars are found in:
biscuits, cakes and pastries
chocolate
honey and jams
jellies
Simple carbohydrates (sugar) cause tooth decay. So they are not good in large amounts that is why using the balanced diet plate and also exercising regularly will help with the metabolism which is how fast the body burns the energy all this put together makes a healthy balanced diet, but make sure it is Balanced
The difference between complex and simple carbohydrates
All carbohydrates form glucose when digested. Glucose is transported around the body via blood and taken into cells to be converted into energy. The pancreas gland secretes the hormone insulin which controls the uptake of glucose by your cells. If you have any excess glucose, this is converted into glycogen which is stored in the liver or in fat around the body. When your body needs more energy, a second hormone called glucagon is secreted by the pancreas. This converts the glycogen back into glucose, which is then released into your bloodstream for your cells to use.
This means the body's glucose (sugar) metabolism is a cycle of glucose, insulin and glucagon reactions. The slower the release of glucose and hormones, the more stable and sustainable the energy levels of the body. The more refined the carbohydrate, the faster the glucose is released into your blood. This can cause peaks and drops in your blood sugar level, and less stable energy levels in the body. Complex carbohydrates provide a slower and more sustained release of energy than simple carbohydrates. In their natural form they contribute to long-term good health, appetite control and sustained energy levels.
