How do complex carbohydrates differ from simple sugars regarding energy release?
Answer
Complex carbohydrates take longer to digest, offering a more sustained release of energy.
Carbohydrates are categorized based on their structure, leading to differing digestion times. Simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose (often found in fruit juices), can be broken down quickly, allowing cells to immediately convert them into energy. Conversely, complex carbohydrates, such as starches found in whole grains and vegetables, require more time for the body to break down. This extended digestion process results in a slower, more sustained release of energy into the system, which is beneficial for maintaining energy levels over a longer period compared to the rapid spike and subsequent drop associated with simple sugars.
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