Carbohydrates are the body's primary energy source.
Also called carbs, they come in two forms: complex carbs (starches) and simple carbs (sugars.) One gram of carbohydrate provides just 4 calories.

Carbs are broken down to an energy source called glucose, which powers your body-and brain. Your body stores some extra carbs as glycogen. It's like extra fuel. You'll use this when you exercise hard.

Complex carbs, like those in whole wheat bread, are healthy picks. But, it's okay to pick simple carbs on occasion, too. When you want something really sweet, go for fruit; it's a healthy simple carb. Complex carbs are in bread, noodles and rice and in lots of delicious veggies. Simple carbs (sugars) are usually sweet tasting and found in cookies, candy and regular sodas. They're also found naturally in fruit and dairy.

Terms used for hidden sugars include: sucrose, fructose, glucose, dextrose, manitol, sorbitol, honey, corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup.