Carbohydrates

Alternative names:

complex carbohydrates; diet and carbohydrates; simple carbohydrates; simple sugars; starches; sugars

Food sources:

Complex carbohydrates are a good source of minerals, vitamins, and fiber. They are starches found in:

• breads
• cereals
• starchy vegetables
• legumes
• rice
• pastas

Simple carbohydrates also contain vitamins and minerals. They naturally occur in:

• fruits
• milk and milk products
• vegetables

Simple carbohydrates are also found in processed and refined sugars such as:

• candy
• honey
• table sugar
• syrups
• regular carbonated beverages

Refined sugars provide calories, but lack vitamins, minerals, and fiber.