what are the building blocks of carbohydrates Carbohydrates are made up of three components: sugar, starch, and fiber. Sugar is the simplest form of carbohydrate and is found in foods like fruit, honey, and candy. Starch is a complex carbohydrate that is found in foods like bread, rice, and pasta. Fiber is the most complex form of carbohydrate and is found in foods like vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. All carbohydrates are made up of these three components.

Carbohydrates are biomolecules consisting of carbon (C), hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) atoms, usually with a 1:2:1 atom ratio. As a group, they are divided into two subgroups: complex carbohydrates (or polysaccharides) and simple carbohydrates (or monosaccharides).

Carbonhydrates are the most abundant molecules in living organisms. In plants, they take the form of starches, sugars and fibers, whereas in animals they exist mainly as glycogen. Plants use carbonhydrates as an energy storage molecule, while animals store them mainly in the liver and muscles. When needed for energy, glycogen is broken down into glucose molecules which can then be used by cells for ATP production.

Carbohydrates can be simple or complex, depending on their chemical structure. Simple carbohydrates are made up of one or two sugar units and include glucose, fructose, and galactose. Complex carbohydrates are made up of three or more sugar units and include starch and fiber.

The body breaks down all types of carbohydrates into glucose, which is then used for energy. The different types of carbohydrates are digested at different rates and have different effects on blood sugar levels. Simple carbohydrates are digested quickly, while complex carbohydrates take longer to digest.

Refined carbs such as white bread and candy cause a sharp spike in blood sugar levels because they are quickly broken down into glucose. Unrefined carbs such as whole grains and vegetables have a slower effect on blood sugar because they take longer to digest.

The body needs carbohydrates for energy, but too many refined carbs can lead to weight gain and health problems such as diabetes. It is important to eat a variety of complex carbs such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to ensure proper nutrition and health.