What is the difference between complex and simple carbohydrates?


The differences between complex and simple carbohydrates are as follows:-


Simple Carbohydrates
Complex Carbohydrates
1. Also known as a simple sugar.
1. Also known as starch.
2. Composed of a short chain of sugar molecules.
2. Composed of a long chain of sugar molecules.
3. Contains one (monosaccharides), or two (disaccharides) sugar units.
3. Contains three or more sugar units (polysaccharides).
4. Quick to digest.
4. Late to digest.
5. It is a short-lasting source of energy.
5. It is a long-lasting source of energy.
6. Components are Glucose, Galactose, Fructose (monosaccharides), and Lactose, Sucrose, Maltose (disaccharides).
6. Components are Amylose (starch), and Glycogen, Cellulose, Pectins (non-starch).
7. Examples- Table Sugar, Fruits, Dairy products (Milk), Soft-drinks, etc.
7. Examples- Grains (Oatmeal, Rice, Corn, Barley), Vegetables (Potato, Pumpkin Pea), Nuts, Beans, etc.

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Updated on: 27-Mar-2023

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