Final answer:
Carbohydrates include sugars (fructose, glucose, lactose), starches, and fiber, which are found in foods like fruit, milk, pasta, bread, and vegetables. Starches and fibers are complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy and digestive health benefits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Carbohydrates The three types of carbohydrates are sugars (simple carbohydrates), starches, and fiber (both complex carbohydrates). Sugars are small carbohydrates that include fructose, glucose, and lactose. These can be found in foods such as fruits (example: an apple for fructose) and milk (example: lactose). Starches are larger molecules made of many glucose units bonded together, found in foods like pasta, bread, and potatoes. Lastly, fiber refers to the indigestible part of plant foods that aids in digestion. Soluble fiber, which dissolves in water, is found in foods such as oats, while insoluble fiber, which does not dissolve in water, can be found in wheat bran. Foods rich in simple sugars are easily digested and provide a quick source of energy, while those with complex carbohydrates like starches are digested more slowly, providing sustained energy. Fiber, although not digestible, is crucial for digestive health.