What Are Carbohydrates Used for in the Body?

Carbohydrates come in two different forms. Simple carbs get digested quickly, and complex carbs get digested slowly. Together, they are responsible for a lot of actions in the body.

Long Term

• Carbohydrates are stored in the liver and muscles of the body in the form of glycogen. This is called upon for energy when the body is performing activities like running, weight-lifting and playing sports.

Short Term

• Carbohydrates are also used for short-term energy. This is why you should eat a snack if you need a quick boost of energy.

Replenish

• After long intense workouts, carbohydrates are used to replenish used up glycogen. They are also used during long endurance events to keep glycogen stores high.

Fiber

• Carbohydrates are where fiber comes from, and fiber helps the body eliminate waste. Fiber comes from complex carbs such as whole grains, beans, oat bran and wheat bran.

Brain Function

• The brain also uses carbohydrates to function properly. When they are eaten, they turn to glucose, which is the sugar that brain feeds off of.