Carbohydrate: meaning, definitions and examples

Scientific or general discussions about nutrition and biochemistry.

• Carbohydrates are an essential part of a balanced diet
• The human body uses carbohydrates to produce energy

Everyday conversations about sweeteners, general nutrition, and discussions about diet. Can have a negative connotation when discussing health issues.

• Too much sugar can lead to weight gain and other health problems
• My coffee needs a little sugar

Conversations about specific types of carbohydrates found mainly in plant-based foods like potatoes and grains.

• Potatoes are high in starch
• Starches break down into glucose during digestion

Medical or scientific discussions about blood sugar levels and energy production.

• Doctors often measure blood glucose levels to check for diabetes
• Glucose is a type of sugar that cells use for energy

Use when discussing a broad category of macronutrients that includes sugars, starches, and fibers. Often seen in nutrition and health-related contexts.

• You need carbohydrates for energy.
• This diet restricts carbohydrate intake.

Use when talking about sweet-tasting, soluble carbohydrates like glucose, fructose, and sucrose. Common in everyday conversations about food and diet.

• Too much sugar can lead to health problems.
• I like to add sugar to my coffee.

Use when referring to complex carbohydrates found primarily in grains, potatoes, and other staple foods. Often used in discussions about cooking and food properties.

• Potatoes are high in starch.
• Starch is broken down into sugar in the body.

Use when referring to a specific type of sugar that is a primary source of energy for the body's cells. Common in medical and biological discussions.

• Glucose levels need to be monitored for diabetics.
• After eating, your body converts carbs into glucose.