Carbohydrates, which are sugars, are an essential part of a healthy diet. They provide 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 amy lose and amylopectin. Nutritionists estimate that carbohydrates should make up about one-fourth to one-fifth of 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 carbohydrate, it must then use its protein supplies for energy, a process called gluconeogenesis. However, this 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 ketosis in the body that cause fatigue, lethargy, and bad breath.