Carbohydrates are essential nutrients that are responsible for the production of energy in the body. They form part of the three main macronutrients, which also include proteins and fats. While carbohydrates are commonly classified into simple and complex carbohydrates, they can also be categorized as unrefined and refined carbohydrates. Refined carbohydrates are ones that have been processed or altered with the addition of artificial chemicals and sugars, and their natural nutrients such as fibers, vitamins and minerals have been reduced or eliminated. Unrefined carbohydrates are in their natural state, and they contain all the naturally occurring nutrients that are beneficial to the body.
Unrefined Carbohydrates
Unrefined carbohydrates are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, which are necessary for the production of energy in the human body. Natural food fiber is responsible for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, and it acts as a barrier to the digestive system by controlling appetite. The recommended daily intake of natural fiber is between 20 to 45 grams. This amount of fiber can only be found in unrefined carbohydrates, especially wholegrain bread and cereals. Other examples that contain unrefined carbohydrates include brown rice, beans, oatmeal, bran cereal, millet, barley, couscous, wheat, vegetables, lentils, herbs, lamb, poultry and other wholegrain products.
The consumption of unrefined carbohydrates is highly recommended due to their high nutritional value. When buying foods in a store or supermarket, you should choose products that have a high percentage of fiber and minerals. When selecting cereals and bread, the ingredients should include wholegrain or whole wheat.
Refined Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates have undergone manufacturing or repackaging processes, and they are the worst form of carbs available. Moreover, some refined carbohydrates contain dangerous chemicals that may spike the blood sugar levels and trigger other health problems.
Refined carbohydrates do not contain the necessary nutrients that are beneficial to your health. Despite the fact that they have a sweet taste and are delightful to consume, they have very low nutritional value. These products will cause more harm than good to the body. Research shows that consumption of refined products is the leading cause of diseases and disorders such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cardiovascular problems.
The main problem associated with refined carbohydrates is that artificial sugar products are often added in abundance. These additives are not only addictive, but they're also detrimental to the general health of the body, and therefore, it's best that you refrain from consuming high quantities. Examples of food products that contain refined carbohydrates include packaged cereals, white bread, white rice, pasta, cakes, biscuits, sweets, candy, pastries, pies, white flour, beer, sweet white wine, sherry and many others.
In comparison, unrefined carbohydrates take a much longer time to be absorbed by the body than refined carbohydrates. This is because refined carbs contain a lot of sugar, which makes them easier for the body to absorb. Other than containing beneficial natural nutrients, unrefined carbohydrates are also known to be the best source of sustainable energy.
