Essay On Carbohydrates

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Carbohydrates make up the largest volume of daily food in the diet. Carbohydrates include sugars, starches, and dietary fiber. Carbohydrates are considered organic chemicals because they contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are considered a macronutrient because it needs to be consumed in large amounts in a diet which make up the majority of the diet in a day. Carbohydrates are important because they are the main source of calories for a healthy diet. How do carbohydrates affect sleep? Carbohydrates provide energy for physical activity, brain function, and operation of the organs. When carbohydrates are consumed, they are converted to fuel and used as energy. There are two types of carbohydrates known as simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates are sugars that are made of one or two sugar molecules and are rapidly digested. Complex carbohydrates are dietary starches and made of sugar molecules that contain fiber. They are found in whole plant foods which are high in vitamin and minerals. The glycemic index is a “relative ranking on how they affect blood glucose levels.” (University of Sydney) Foods with a low glycemic index are more slowly digested, absorbed, and metabolize so the blood glucose rises more slowly. Foods with a high glycemic index are more quickly …show more content…

Complex carbohydrates help keep blood sugar levels steady throughout the night, promotes sleep by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and lower the stress level of cortisol. Serotonin can help improve mood and give relaxation through a person’s sleep which will help them wake up in a better state of mind. Because complex carbohydrates are not absorbed by the body quickly, the energy breakdown process is slower therefore, the energy provided and blood levels are more sustained throughout the night making it a better sleep

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