Heath and Social Care Level 3 Unit 21 Task 2

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TASK 2 UNIT 21 Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are a source of energy. When eaten, the body converts most carbohydrates into glucose (sugar), which is used to fuel cells such as those of the brain and muscles. Carbohydrates are one of three macronutrients (nutrients that form a large part of our diet) found in food – the others being fat and protein. Hardly any foods contain only one nutrient and most are a combination of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in varying amounts. There are three different types of carbohydrate: sugar, starch and fibre. Sugar: is found naturally in some foods, including fruit, honey, fruit juices, milk (lactose) and vegetables. Other forms of sugar can be added to food and drink such as sweets, chocolates, biscuits and soft drinks during manufacture, or added when cooking or baking. Starch: is made up of many sugar units bonded together. It is found in foods that come from plants. Starchy foods, such as bread, rice, potatoes and pasta, provide a slow and steady release of energy throughout the day. Fibre: is only found in foods that come from plants. Fibre helps keep our bowels healthy and some types of fibre may help lower cholesterol. Research shows diets high in fibre are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Good sources of fibre include vegetables with skins on, whole grain bread and whole wheat pasta. In a healthy balanced diet carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. High fibre, starchy carbohydrates release sugar into the blood more slowly than sugary foods and drinks. 1g of carbohydrates provides 3.75 kcal. It is advised that 18g of fibre is eaten a day as it is an important part of a healthy balanced diet. It can promote good bowel health, reduce the risk of constipation, and some forms of fibre have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. Fats Fat is an

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