Carbohydrates Flashcards
How much energy does 1g of carbohydrate provide?
3.75 kcal
How much of our energy should we get from carbohydrates?
50%
How is starch formed?
When 1000s of glucose units join together into a big molecule.
How is starch released?
Slowly.
What are 5 sources of starch?
Potatoes, bread, rice, pasta, breakfast cereals, pulses.
How big is a sugar molecule?
Small
How is sugar released?
Quickly.
What are 5 sources of sugar?
Ice cream, fruit, cakes, chocolate, fruit juice, fizzy drinks.
What is NSP?
Non-starch polysaccharide.
How many grams of NSP should an adult have a day?
18g.
What are the 2 types of NSP?
Insoluble & soluble
What does insoluble NSP do?
Acts like a sponge. Adds bulk to the faeces. Makes it soft & easily removed.
What does insoluble NSP reduce the risk of?
Constipation, diverticular disease & bowel cancer.
What are the sources of insoluble NSP?
Jacket potatoes, fruit & vegetable skins, wholegrain/wholemeal items.
What does soluble NSP do?
Dissolves in water. Reduces cholesterol & blood sugar levels.
What does soluble NSP reduce the risk of? What does it help manage?
CHD & stroke. Diabetes.
What is constipation? What symptoms accompany it?
Hard faeces. Difficult to pass. Abdominal discomfort & ill health.
What is diverticular disease?
Small & hard faeces. Intestinal walls work harder to pass. Pouches of bowel lining forced out through intestinal walls.
What is the tooth decay word equation?
Sugar + Bacteria -> Acid -> Enamel Erosion
(Plaque)
What are the symptoms of a deficiency of carbohydrates?
Lack of energy, lethargy & weight loss.
Why should toddlers & young children not get 18g NSP per day?
Causes diarrhoea, less time to absorb nutrients. Fills child up, can’t eat any more so gets a lack of nutrients.
What are the 2 types of carbohydrates that provide energy?
Starch & sugar
