Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates, also called carbs, are a type of nutrient in foods. The three basic forms are sugars, starches and fiber. Your body breaks down the sugars and starches from carbs. They end up as a type of sugar called glucose. This sugar passes into the bloodstream and is the main source of energy for cells in your body. Fiber passes through your body undigested.

Two main hormones from the pancreas help control glucose in the bloodstream. The hormone insulin moves glucose from the blood into the cells. The hormone glucagon helps release glucose stored in the liver when blood sugar levels are low. This process helps keep the body fueled and blood sugar in balance.

Many different things about food affect how quickly glucose enters the bloodstream.