Carbohydrates (CHO)
Carbohydrates are produced by photosynthesis in plants. They are the primary source of energy in nature’s plant foods—fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and tubers. Endurance athletics know that they are the best source of energy because they provide both immediate and time-released energy sources. Carbohydrates can be considered our main source of energy. Carbohydrates are composed of carbon [C], hydrogen [H], and oxygen [O], thus the abbreviation CHO. The basic chemical relationship is that of carbon coupled with water molecules. Because this chemical coupling can easily be converted to glucose to fuel the cells, carbohydrates are a quick source of energy.
Examples of high carbohydrate foods:
