Carbohydrates are a key source of energy for your body. Found in foods like bread, fruits, and vegetables which make up a healthy breakfast and other meals, carbs are an essential part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation. To find out more about carbs and why and how to include them in your meals, take a look at the guide below.

What Are Carbs?

Carbohydrates are macronutrients, or nutrients the body requires in large amounts to build up energy daily. They’re made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, and can be broken down into three main types: sugars, fiber, and starches. 

Sugars are sometimes called simple carbohydrates, while starches are often called complex carbohydrates. Carbs are made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which are vital components of every human organ and major system in the body.

What Are the Benefits?

Carbs are the body’s primary source of glucose, a simple sugar. Your body converts glucose into energy for the brain, central nervous system, heart, and kidneys, as well as strength needed for physical activity. 

Fiber plays an important role in digestion and helps to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and carbohydrates in general are essential to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter which regulates mood. If you don’t get enough carbs in your diet, your overall health can decline, leading to symptoms such as:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Bad breath
• Constipation
• Increased stress due to heightened levels of cortisol

How Can You Include Carbs in Your Diet?

Breakfast cereals, bread, pasta, and whole grain foods like brown rice and oatmeal are excellent sources of healthy carbohydrates. Baked goods like biscuits and pancakes are good choices, since they contain carbs in abundance along with plenty of protein and healthy fat, the other two macronutrients.

In addition to grain-based foods, fruits like berries, apples, and bananas, vegetables such as corn and carrots, and legumes like black beans and lentils are rich in healthy carbs. You can also include low-fat milk and plain yogurt in your meals to get the nutrients you need.

When you’re craving a healthy, delicious all-American breakfast, stop by Biscuit King in High Point, NC. For over 20 years, they’ve been serving up hot, fresh meals using the freshest ingredients, including lunch and all-day breakfast, complete with fresh buttermilk biscuits, omelets, and pancakes. Call (336) 991-5524 to place an order or ask about their full menu.