Define Carbohydrates

Sugar, like a candle, can burn but burning requires oxygen. We eat to do work. To do their work, cells need an important group of food known as 'carbohydrates'. They are made up of C, H and O in a wide variety of combinations. Each combination is a different substance. The most important role of carbohydrates is to provide energy. The simplest form is glucose, one energy-packed molecule for muscular contractions, cell functions including brain cells.

Carbohydrates are mainly stored in liver and muscles. Body converts all carbohydrates into simple sugars. Energy from food is measured in units known as 'calories'. For example, a tablespoon of honey contains 100 calories. Scientists have figured out how much of food is to be consumed to do normal work; a one year old child needs 44 calories for every pound he/she weighs. As a general rule, a man of average weight of 70 kg with sedentary habits needs from 1800-2500 calories/day.