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Complex carbohydrates are made up of sugar molecules that are
strung together in long, complex chains. Complex carbohydrates are
found in foods such as peas, beans, whole grains, and vegetables.
Both simple and complex carbohydrates are turned to glucose (blood
sugar) in the body and are used as energy. Glucose is used in the
cells of the body and in the brain. Any unused glucose is stored in
the liver and muscles as glycogen for use later.
Complex carbohydrate foods provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber
that are important to the health of an individual. The majority of
carbohydrates should come from complex carbohydrates (starches) and
naturally occurring sugars, rather than processed or refined
sugars, which do not have the vitamins, minerals, and fiber found
in complex and natural carbohydrates. Refined sugars are often
called "empty calories" because they have little to no nutritional
value.
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Review Date: 8/22/2008
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer,
Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant
Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed
by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any
medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical
condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for
diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911
for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for
information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those
other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the
information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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