Carbohydrates, which are sugars, are an essentials part of a healthy diet. They proved the main source of energy for the body, and they also function to flavor and sweeten foods. Carbohydrates range from simple sugars like glucose to complex sugars such as amylase and amylopectin. Nutritionists estimate that carbohydrates should make up about one-fifth of a person’s diet. This translates to about 75 - 100 grams of carbohydrates per day.
A diet that is deficient in carbohydrates can have an adverse effect on a person’s health. When the body lacks a sufficient amount of carbohydrates it must then use its protein supplies for energy, a process called gluconegenesis. This, however, results in a lack of necessary protein, and further health difficulties may occur. A lack of carbohydrates can also lead to ketosis, a build - up of ketones in the body that causes fatigue, lethargy, and bad breath.