For more information, please visit the Data Laboratory Home Page . Carbohydrates Both simple and complex carbohydrates are an important part of your diet. They are the fuel from which the human body derives most of its energy. At least half of the calories consumed should come from carbohydrates, especially complex carbohydrates like rice. Sugars, starch, and fiber are forms of carbohydrates.
Simple carbohydrates are sugars, which include glucose, fructose, lactose, and sucrose.
Complex carbohydrates, which are actually large chains of glucose molecules, consist primarily of starches and fiber. Rice, a complex carbohydrate food, provides more vitamins, minerals, and fiber than simple carbohydrate foods. One-half cup cooked white rice provides 0.03 grams of dietary fiber. One-half cup cooked brown rice provides 1.6 grams of dietary fiber. Return to Chart Protein Dietary proteins provide amino acids to build and maintain tissues, and to form enzymes, some hormones, and antibodies.