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Facts about Carbohydrate

Nancy Gal, , andWendy Dahl


Release Date: 5/25/2026

DOI: 10.32473/EDIS-fs243-2014

Family and Consumer Sciences

Abstract

Carbohydrate, fat, and protein are the three nutrients that provide energy (calories). However, carbohydrate from starch and sugars is our main and most important source of energy. During digestion, starch is broken down to sugar (glucose). Carbohydrate in the form of glucose provides energy to cells, tissues, and organs to carry out daily activities. Some glucose is stored in the liver and muscle cells for later use when required. Children need carbohydrate for growth, and adults need carbohydrate to maintain their weight.

About this Publication

This document is FSHN14-03, one of a series of the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date February 2014. Revised May 2017, March 2021, and January 2026. Visit the Ask IFAS website at https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/ for the currently supported version of this publication.

How to Cite

Gal, N. J., Ford, A. L., & Dahl, W. J. (2014). Facts about Carbohydrate. EDIS, 2014(2). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fs243-2014

Authors

Nancy Gal
Nancy Gal
County agent
University of Florida

Extension agent IV emeritus, food and consumer sciences, UF/IFAS Marion County Extension

Amanda Ford
Amanda Ford
Wendy Dahl
Wendy Dahl
Specialist
University of Florida

professor and Extension specialist, UF/IFAS Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition

Also available in

Publication #FSHN14-03

General Public