What are carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are a group of nutrients essential for a healthy and balanced diet.

Sugars, starches and fibres found in fruit, grains, vegetables and milk products are all various types of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are made up of sugar molecules, which our bodies break down into fuel to give our body and brain the energy they need to function.

Most dietary recommendations say that between 45 and 65 percent of our daily calorie intake should come from carbohydrates. The foods rich in carbohydrates are dairy, fruit, beans, legumes, grains, starchy vegetables (e.g. potatoes), bakery products and sugary sweets.