What are carbohydrates

What are carbohydrates 

Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred energy source and they contain 4 calories per gram. Although carbohydrates are not an essential nutrient because the body can obtain the energy that is required from protein and fats, the deficiency of it can cause serious health issues. Carbohydrates primarily derive from plant based foods (grains, fruits, vegetables) but they can also be found in refined products (cookies, candy soft drinks) with the difference that refined foods contain higher levels of carbohydrates

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The carbohydrates (saccharides) are classified into three major groups: monosaccharides (fructose, glucose, galactose and ribose), disaccharides (lactose, sucrose and maltose) and oligosaccharides/polysaccharides (glycogen, starch).
The monosaccharides and the disaccharides are known as simple carbohydrates and they are found in cookies, candy, desserts. They are a quick source of energy for the body. It is best to use them just after your workout and in the morning.
The oligosaccharides/polysaccharides are known as complex carbohydrates and they are found in pasta, cereals, bread. They keep the body fueled for a longer time and contain fiber, vitamins and minerals. You can have them in every meal except for the one right before going to sleep because the body does not need much energy while sleeping and the carbohydrates that you will take will be stored as fat.
Around 45% of your daily calorie income should come from carbohydrates. So if your daily needs are 3000 calories you should consume around 330-340 grams of carbs.