Simple Carbohydrates vs. Complex Carbohydrates
Article Sources
- 1. ’Carbohydrates.’ Cleveland Clinic. www.my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15416-carbohydrates
- 2. Kandola A. ‘What to know about simple and complex carbs.’ Medical News Today. www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325171
- 3. Holesh J; Aslam S; Martin A. ‘Physiology, Carbohydrates.’ National Institutes of Health. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459280/
- 4. ’Glycemic index for 60+ foods.’ Harvard Health Publishing. www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/glycemic-index-and-glycemic-load-for-100-foods
Fiber
Fiber is a complex carbohydrate that provides little nutritional value but has a role in maintaining equilibrium in the body. Soluble fiber helps decrease overall cholesterol and raise HDL, the healthy cholesterol. It also can assist with waste elimination and maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Food examples include oats, fruits, broccoli and dried beans.
The role of insoluble fiber is principally to absorb water in the intestines, creating bulkier, softer stools that prevent constipation. Bran, seeds and brown rice are some insoluble fiber-rich foods.
