Top 10 Sources of Carbohydrates

The top sources of carbohydrates can be broadly categorised as follows:

Refined Grains and Bread Products: This is a major source of carbohydrates, including white bread, rolls, bagels, crackers, and other baked goods made from refined flour.
Sweets and Sugary Foods: This category includes a wide variety of items with added sugars, such as candy, cookies, cakes, pastries, and other desserts.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverages: Soda, fruit juices, sports drinks, and energy drinks are significant contributors to carbohydrate intake, primarily in the form of simple sugars.
Pasta: Pasta, a staple in many Western diets, is a concentrated source of carbohydrates, especially when made from refined wheat flour.
Potatoes and Potato Products: Potatoes are a common starchy vegetable. This includes a range of preparations like french fries, potato chips, mashed potatoes, and baked potatoes.
Rice: As a widely consumed grain, rice (both white and brown) is a major source of carbohydrates in many diets.
Breakfast Cereals: Many breakfast cereals, especially those marketed to children, are high in refined grains and added sugars.
Starchy Vegetables: Beyond potatoes, other starchy vegetables like corn and peas contribute to overall carbohydrate intake.
Dairy Products: Milk and yogurt contain naturally occurring sugars (lactose), making them a source of carbohydrates.
Legumes: While often considered a healthy source of complex carbohydrates, legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas are also a significant source of carbohydrates in the diet.

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