Carbohydrates Guide: Complex Carbs vs. Processed Sugars

Carbohydrates serve as an essential energy source, but processed versions can lead to inflammation and weight gain. Understanding the difference between complex carbs like oatmeal and simple sugars is key to metabolic health.

Which Foods & Vegetables Contain Starch?

Published Jul,08 2011 | By Jamie Yacoub

There are three major types of carbohydrates -- starch, sugar and fiber. Starch is a complex carbohydrate, made up of a series of simple sugar molecules linked together. Significant amounts of starch can be found in a variety of plant foods.

Jamie Yacoub is a clinical outpatient Registered Dietitian, expert in nutrition and author of her cookbook "Modern Guide to Food and Eating: Low Glycemic Recipes". She obtained a Bachelor of Science in clinical nutrition from UC Davis and an MPH in nutrition from Loma Linda University. Yacoub then completed her dietetic internship as an intern for a Certified Specialist in sports nutrition and at a top-100 hospital.