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Carbohydrates are an essential part of the human diet. They provide most of the energy for the body, as well as many vitamins and nutrients. They are found in abundance in many plant foods such as rice, pasta, beans, potatoes and many other grain products and vegetables.

When selecting grain products, people are urged to select whole grain foods such as whole-wheat bread, brown rice, whole-grain pasta, quinoa, whole oats and bulgur. 

Sources of carbohydrates include:

Complex carbohydrate sources

*Also in grain products such as whole wheat bread, crackers or pasta.

Simple Carbohydrate Sources (Natural)

Simple Carbohydrate Sources (Added)

Simple sugars are also found in:

• Candy
• Cookies
• Pastries
• Carbonated beverages (e.g., sodas)
• Many processed foods, such as ketchup, salad dressings, canned chili and frozen dinners

Certain foods contain few or no carbohydrates. They include proteins and fats such as:

• Meat, poultry and fish
• Eggs
• Butter
• Oils