Carbohydrates :Classification of Carbohydrates,Simple and complex carbs,The glycemic index
Carbohydrates It is a group of organic compounds occurring in living tissues and foods in the form of starch, cellulose, and sugars. The ratio of oxygen and hydrogen in carbohydrates is the same as in water i.e. 2:1. It typically breaks down in the animal body to release energy. Mainly sugars and starches, together constituting one of the three principal types of nutrients used as energy sources (calories) by the body. Carbohydrates can also be defined chemically as neutral compounds of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Classification of Carbohydrates The main classification of carbohydrate is done on the basis of hydrolysis . This classification is as follow: Monosaccharides : These are the simplest form of carbohydrate that cannot be hydrolyzed any further. They have the general formula of (CH2O)n. Some common examples are glucose, Ribose etc. Oligosaccharides : Carbohydrates that on hydrolysis yield two to ten smaller units or monosaccharides are o...