Carbohydrate

Carbohydrate: One of the three nutrients that are used as energy sources (calories) by the body. (The other energy sources are in the form of fats and proteins. Carbohydrates come in the form of simple sugars and complex forms, such as starches and fiber. Complex carbohydrates come naturally from plants. Intake of complex carbohydrates can lower blood cholesterol when they are substituted for saturated fat. The energy produced by carbohydrates is 4 calories per gram. Proteins also provide 4 calories per gram, while fats provide 9 calories per gram.