Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide fuel for our cells. Different amounts of carbohydrates are required depending on individual metabolism and how much a person exercises. The best sources of carbohydrates are foods such as seed-bearing fruits, which are low in sugar and high in minerals. Wild or organic fruits are ideal because they have the highest mineral content. Carbohydrate sources that are high in fiber are also beneficial because the fiber regulates sugar absorption, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar.
Refined sugars and cooked or processed starches are unhealthy and addictive forms of carbohydrates. Abuse of these carbohydrates leads to pale puffy skin, diabetes, poor immune function, and a host of other health problems.
Symptoms of a carbohydrate deficiency may include breakdown of body protein, increased sodium excretion, buildup of toxins in the liver, loss of energy, and fatigue. Carbohydrate deficiency is rare in the Western world, but may occur in those who are following a "low-carb" diet or those who are facing starvation, such as anorexia sufferers or catastrophe victims.
| US Recommended Daily Allowance: | 300 g |
Food Sources of Carbohydrates
| Sapotes | 75.9 g | 25% | |
| Durian | 65.8 g | 22% | |
| Cherimoya | 55.2 g | 18% | |
| Sweet Potatoes | 41.4 g | 14% | A good cooked alternative to white potatoes. |
| Jackfruit | 39.6 g | 13% | |
| Papaya | 37.3 g | 12% | |
| Mango | 35 g | 12% | |
| Coconut (Young) | 28 g | 9% | The coconut water inside of a young coconut is a good source of carbohydrates. |
| Pears | 27.5 g | 9% | |
| Bananas | 27 g | 9% | Generally score between 30 and 60 on the glycemic index, depending on ripeness, putting them in the low- to mid-range. |
| Figs | 19.2 g | 6% | A good source of carbohydrates because they also contains a lot of fiber. |
| Apples | 19 g | 6% | Also high in fiber, which slows sugar absorption. |
| Agave Nectar | 16 g | 5% | |
| Melons with seeds | N/A | N/A |