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Carbohydrates: How carbs fit into a healthy diet
Understanding carbohydrates
More carbohydrate terms: Net carbs and glycemic index
How many carbohydrates do you need?
Make carbs one part of a balanced meal
Replace refined grains with whole grains
Stick to low-fat dairy products
Content
What are carbohydrates?
Types of carbohydrates
Carbohydrates and your health
Providing energy
Protecting against disease
Controlling weight
How many carbohydrates do I need?
Choose your carbohydrates wisely
Make carbs one part of a balanced meal
Focus on eating fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
Replace refined grains with whole grains
Stick to low-fat dairy products
Boost the use of beans, peas and lentils
Limit added sugars
How carbs fit into your healthy diet
More carbohydrate terms: Net carbs and glycemic index
How many carbohydrates do you need?
Make carbs one part of a balanced meal
Replace refined grains with whole grains
Stick to low-fat dairy products
Content
What are carbohydrates?
Types of carbohydrates
Carbohydrates and your health
Providing energy
Protecting against disease
Controlling weight
How many carbohydrates do I need?
Choose your carbohydrates wisely
Make carbs one part of a balanced meal
Focus on eating fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
Replace refined grains with whole grains
Stick to low-fat dairy products
Boost the use of beans, peas and lentils
Limit added sugars
How carbs fit into your healthy diet
What are carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates are sugars in food. Carbohydrates also are the parts of food that the body doesn't digest, called fiber. Carbohydrates are naturally found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains and dairy products.
Carbohydrates also may be added to processed foods. For example, fructose is a type of carbohydrate in fruit, but it can be processed and used to sweeten drinks. Inulin is a fiber found in some fruits and vegetables but also may be added to grain products and protein bars.