Starch: The Essential Component For Good Health

Among people who have tried low-carbohydrate diets, most believe that carbohydrates in the form of starch is unhealthy. But contrary to popular belief, starch is an essential component for good health and is a primary source of energy. Studies have shown that plants can absorb sunlight and transform its energy into carbohydrates. The human body has the ability to reverses the process by drawing energy from the sugar and starch found in plant-based foods.

Types of Starches
Dietary starch is known as a complex carbohydrate. Sugars and starch in plants are called glucose molecules. Most glucose in the body is used immediately for energy, while the rest is transformed via the liver into Glycogen. Glycogen is a complex chain of glucose molecules with various branches. The glucose molecules found in Glycogen is absorbed into the liver and muscles for later use in the body.

Metabolism
Plants can effectively transform carbon dioxide, water and energy from the sun into carbohydrates. This process is called photosynthesis. Carbohydrates are defined as molecules of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. Humans acquire carbohydrates by consuming plants which contain carbohydrates. When your body breaks down carbohydrate molecules into water, energy and carbon dioxide, this process is called metabolism. Essentially, your body uses all the energy stored in the molecules while eliminating the carbon dioxide.

The Importance of Starches
Your body needs glucose for energy 24 hours a day. A healthy diet must include carbohydrates in order for your body to produce and process energy. Carbohydrates can be found in grains and starchy vegetables like rice, potatoes, wheat, corn and yams.

Additional Considerations
If you incorporate a diet which includes starches like whole grains, Idaho potatoes, vegetables, whole fruits, and nuts and seeds, you will definitely benefit from these nutrients. Each of these foods provides sugar and starch for the body that can boost your energy level and sense of well-being. They also provide the necessary protein, vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants that can help build your muscles and bones.

Distinguishing between refined carbohydrates which lack key nutrients and complex carbohydrates found in whole-foods which contain vital nutrients, should be used when making food choices. Refined carbohydrates like white flour and white sugar are stripped of key nutrients. These types of carbohydrates should be avoided. It is always best to choose natural and unprocessed sources of starch for your diet instead, because starch is an essential component for good health.