When a packet lists carbohydrates, does that mean sugar only? No. Carbohydrate is the bigger picture: it includes sugars, starches and fibre.
Think of “carbohydrate” as a family name. It groups these three types together, although the body handles them differently.
Review a food label in three checks
1. Find total carbohydrate
This is the main carbohydrate figure on the label. It is not a sugar-only figure.
2. Remember what it includes
Sugars, starches and fibre are the three main types of carbohydrate. The body breaks down sugars and starches into glucose, a main source of energy. Glucose is also known as blood sugar.
Sugars can occur naturally in foods such as fruit and milk. They can also be added to foods and drinks. Starches are another kind of carbohydrate, found in foods such as rice and wholegrain bread.
3. Look separately for fibre and added sugar
Where the label shows them, check fibre and added sugar separately. Fibre is a carbohydrate found in plant foods, including beans and wholegrain foods. Most fibre is not broken down by the body in the same way as sugars and starches.
For more detail, see MedlinePlus: Carbohydrates.
The simple takeaway
“Carbohydrate” does not simply mean sugar. It is the label heading that brings sugars, starches and fibre together.
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This article is for general education and does not replace personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional.