- Carbohydrates are a class of nutrients that is a major source of energy for the body - Can also server as a glue that holds cells togehter - Classified as simple or complex - Plants are rich sources of carbohydrates There are 3 categories of carbs. # Sugars - A **monosaccharide** is a simple sugar that is the basic molecule of carbohydrates: - Glucose: Primary fuel for muscles, nerves, and other cells, the most common. - Fructose: In **fruits**, honey, and certain vegetables - Galactose: Component of lactose - A **disaccharaide** is a simple sugar comprised of two monosaccharides. - Maltose: Disaccharide composed of two glucose molecules "malt sugar" - Sucrose: Disaccharide composed of a glucose and fructose molecule "table sugar" - Lactose: Disaccharide composed of a glucose and a galactose molecule "milk sugar" - High fructose corn syrup is a syrup obtained from the processing of corn - No conclusive evidence that the use of HFCS causes poor health and disease - Excessive calories from beverages sweetened with HFCS contributes to increased risk for diabetes and heart disease # Starches # Fiber