a carbohydrate is the chemical name for sugars and grains. carbohydrates always contain the elements carbon hydrogen and oxygen. fruits breads pasta potatoes beans cereal and rice are high in carbohydrates or “carbs. ” many vegetables are also rich in carbohydrates. soft drinks candy and most other sweet junk foods also contain highly processed carbohydrates. natural carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy diet. the healthiest carbs are in whole grains vegetables fruits and beans. these foods are filled with other nutrients along with carbohydrates. our bodies have to work a bit to digest these carbs. processed carbohydrates such as high-fructose corn syrup are unhealthy when consumed regularly in large amounts. experts believe they are too-easily digested causing blood sugar spikes that might contribute to developing diabetes and other health problems.
what are carbohydrates?