Corn: Simple or Complex Carb

Question
Hi Laurie,

Is corn on the cob, canned corn, considered a simple carbohydrate?  What
type of corn is considered a complex carbohydrate- corn tortillas, tamales,
corn meal, corn bread?

Sincerely,
Angel

Answer
Hi Angel,

Good question! Simple carbs are usually referring to sugars. Glucose and fructose molecules make table sugar, and fructose is found alone in fruits. These break down very quickly in the body after eating.

Complex carbs are more complex structures: long chains and branches of glucose molecules join to make starches that are found in corn, potatoes, and grains. They take longer to break down and they often provide a source of fiber which has numerous health benefits.

Anything made with corn contains the same complex carbohydrate structure (except for corn syrup which is a form of sugar!)

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