Definition of Simple Sugars

Simple sugars are a type of carbohydrate, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Carbohydrates are the body's main energy source and provide energy for metabolism. Simple sugars are often referred to as simple carbohydrates, according to Healthcentral.com. Some types of simple sugars are unhealthy such as sucrose, while other types of simple sugars, such as fructose, are healthy.

Function

• The primary function of any type of carbohydrate is to provide energy to the body, according to the UMMC. Carbohydrates are particularly important for the brain and nervous system. The only type of energy source that the brain can use is a simple sugar. Amylase is an enzyme that helps break carbohydrates down into glucose.

Types

• The main two categories that simple sugars fall under are disaccharides and monosaccharides, according to Isodisnatura.co.uk. Examples of disaccharides include glucose, fructose, galactose and mannos. Examples of monosaccharides include lactose, maltose and saccharose. Disaccharides contain two bonded molecules while monosaccharides contain only a single molecule.

Misconceptions

• Fruits contain simple sugars that are healthy.

  Some people believe that simple sugars result in faster blood sugar spikes than complex sugars. However, increases in blood sugar levels have little to do with the classification of a sugar. For example, fructose is a simple sugar that does not trigger rapid increases to blood sugar or insulin levels. However, potatoes and rice have complex molecular structures, but result in rapid increases in insulin levels.

  Not all simple sugars are unhealthy, according to Isodisnatura.co.uk. Processed foods are not the only type of food that contain simple sugars. Healthy foods like milk and fruit also contain simple sugars. These foods contain fructose, which provides sweetness and energy, but does not result in a sugar high. Fruits also contain fiber which helps reduce appetite. Fiber helps to control weight gain, according to Pubmed.gov.

Considerations

• Processed foods that contain simple sugars are often high in calories and low in fiber. This causes people to consume more calories. Fruits that contain simple sugars are lower in calories and high in fiber which helps people consume less calories. If you need a sugar boost for some quick energy for the apple instead of the candy bar.

Warning

• Consuming too many simple sugars can result in premature aging of organs, high blood pressure, heart disease, arteriosclerosis and type 2 diabetes, according to Isodisnatura.co.uk. Sugar can suppress the immune system, cause mineral problems in the body, cause copper deficiency, produce an acidic digestive tract, lead to alcoholism and cause tooth decay, according to Rheumatic.org.