Carbohydrates, also known as saccharides, are a group of organic compounds (including sugars, starches, and fiber) that constitute the primary source of energy for animals.

There are two general classifications for carbohydrates. The first group is simple carbohydrates, which include fructose (in fruit), lactose (in dairy), and sucrose (table sugar). Simple carbs are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Glucose is the most basic simple sugar, and is required for the functioning of our muscles, brain, and other organs.

The second group is complex carbohydrates, which are long chains of single sugar units, include starch (found in plants like rice, wheat, corn, carrots, and usually concentrated in seeds and roots). Cellulose is another complex carb -- a structural component of plants, it is essential to the composition of fiber.

Scientific research shows indisputably that the healthiest diet is one high in carbohydrates! Such a diet has been shown to reverse heart disease, reverse diabetes, encourage weight loss, and prevent a host of chronic diseases.

At least 99% of the carbohydrates we consume come from fruits, vegetables, and grains. Where these foods are unprocessed and unrefined, they contain a large portion of healthful "complex" carbohydrates, as well as many forms of dietary fiber.

Good sources of carbs include fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, grains, and legumes. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and fiber.

Poor sources of carbs include candy, soda, and other sugary treats. Such "food" provides lots of calories without any accompanying nutrition.

One apple - 19 grams (8g starch, 3g fiber)
One cup broccoli - 6 grams (2.5g fiber, 1.5g sugar)
One cup sweet corn - 31g (21g starch, 3g fiber)
One medium orange - 15 grams (12g fructose, 3g fiber)
One cup strawberries - 12 grams (3g fiber)
One cup blueberries - 21 grams (4g fiber, 15g sugar)
One medium tomato - 5 grams (1.5g fiber)
One medium potato with skin - 29 grams (3g fiber, 25g starch)
One cup carrots - 12 grams (3.5g fiber, 2g starch)
One eight ounce cup of orange juice - 26 grams (21g fructose)
One cup of dry beans (like pinto beans or navy beans) - 47 grams (19g fiber, 28g starch)

And for the sake of comparison...

One Snickers candy bar - 63.5 grams (53g sugar, 2g fiber)

The typical American diet contains incredibly high amounts of simple carbohydrates and "empty calories," consumed in such products as white bread, candy, cakes, and sweetened drinks. On any given day in 1996, 42% of Americans ate cakes, cookies, pastries or pies, but only 10% ate a dark green vegetable. That same year, Americans averaged an astounding 32 teaspoons of "added sugars," though even the USDA recommends no more than 10 tsps.

"The China Study," is an invaluable nutritional resource, basing its conclusions on "the most comprehensive study of nutrition ever conducted." GRO recommends that everyone read it for themselves.

The internet also has a wealth of information, and the following list is a mere sample:

The Vegetarian Society
Harvard School of Public Health
New York Times Health Information
Link to LifeClinic.com