Simple carbs are also in candy, soda and syrups. However, these foods are made with processed and refined sugars and do not have vitamins, minerals or fiber. They are called "empty calories" and can lead to weight gain, according to the NIH. Complex carbohydrates (polysaccharides) have three or more sugars. read more
Carbohydrates provide your body with energy. The simplest are sugars, like glucose, fructose, sucrose and lactose. Complex carbohydrates, like starch, are made up of lots of sugar molecules joined together. read more
Carbohydrates are commonly found in many foods, especially breads, pastas, dairy products, fruits and vegetables. Carbohydrates provide your body with its primary source of energy, although it can also produce energy from fat if you are on a low-carb diet. read more