Simple carbohydrates

The body quickly breaks down simple carbohydrates to use as energy. Simple carbohydrates are found naturally in foods such as fruits, milk, and milk products. They also occur in processed and refined sugar products, such as candy, table sugar, syrups, and soft drinks. The majority of carbohydrate intake should come from fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates (starches) rather than processed, added, or refined sugars.

Simple carbohydrates


Review Date: 11/9/2019
Reviewed By: Michael A. Chen, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Harborview Medical Center, University of Washington Medical School, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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