Carbohydrates are the nutrients that provide energy for the body. Inside this volume, readers will discover the main forms of carbs, how they are created, and why they are important for human health. The age-appropriate explains the differences between simple and complex carbohydrates and between monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides. It details how carbs are broken down in the digestive system into units small enough to be distributed through the bloodstream, absorbed by cells, and converted into energy. Readers will also learn about carb "loading," and major and minor health problems caused by carbs.