szénhidrátot

Szénhidrátok, commonly translated as carbohydrates, are one of the three main macronutrients found in food, alongside fats and proteins. They are organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms, typically with a hydrogen-oxygen atom ratio of 2:1, mirroring that of water. Carbohydrates are a primary source of energy for the body's cells, particularly the brain and muscles.

Carbohydrates are broadly classified into simple and complex forms. Simple carbohydrates, also known as sugars, include monosaccharides like glucose and fructose, and disaccharides like sucrose (table sugar) and lactose (milk sugar). These are rapidly digested and absorbed, leading to a quick rise in blood sugar levels. Complex carbohydrates, or polysaccharides, are made up of long chains of glucose units. Examples include starches, found in grains, potatoes, and legumes, and dietary fiber, which is not fully digestible by humans but plays a crucial role in digestive health.

The body breaks down digestible carbohydrates into glucose, which is then used for energy or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles for later use. If energy intake exceeds expenditure, excess carbohydrates can be converted into fat. Dietary recommendations for carbohydrate intake vary, but they generally form a significant portion of a balanced diet, providing essential fuel for daily activities and bodily functions.