Carbohydrates

What is a carbohydrate?

Carbohydrates are underrated as part of the **Six basic Nutrients**, but are essential for energy, the breakdown of protein, and to protect the body from toxins. There are two groups: monosaccharides and polysaccharides. Glucose forms part of the monosaccharides, which are single molecule sugars. Glucose fuels the body’s chemical processes. Polysaccharides are composed of monosaccharide molecules. They are called complex carbohydrates and are found in fruit, vegetables and grain. Starch is the most important polysaccharide. Carbohydrates prevent dehydration.