What are carbohydrates? Differentiate between its types.

Class 12th Physcal Education, Question -What are carbohydrates? Differentiate between its types.

Question 8:What are carbohydrates? Differentiate between its types.

The correct answer is – Carbohydrates are a class of macronutrients that provide energy to the body. They are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms, and are typically found in foods such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Carbohydrates can be divided into two main types:

  1. Simple carbohydrates: These are also known as sugars and are made up of one or two sugar molecules. Examples of simple carbohydrates include glucose, fructose, and lactose. These types of carbohydrates are quickly broken down and absorbed by the body, leading to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels.

  2. Complex carbohydrates: These are made up of long chains of sugar molecules, and are commonly found in starchy foods such as potatoes, bread, and pasta. Examples of complex carbohydrates include starch and fiber. These types of carbohydrates are broken down more slowly by the body, leading to a more gradual increase in blood sugar levels.

It is important to note that not all carbohydrates are created equal, and some sources of carbohydrates can be healthier than others. For example, complex carbohydrates are generally considered to be healthier than simple carbohydrates, as they tend to be more nutrient-dense and are less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar levels.